Heaslip criticism frustrates Easterby

Leinster manager Guy Easterby has launched a staunch defence of Jamie Heaslip’s form as well as the player’s performance as Ireland captain in the wake of Sunday’s debacle in Murrayfield.

The Naas number eight was originally handed the armband by Declan Kidney for the November Tests and then retained it for the Six Nations, despite the return to fitness of long-term incumbent Brian O’Driscoll.

The son of a retired army general, Heaslip had skippered Leinster 12 times and lost just once and, at 29 and with over 50 caps, the British and Irish Lion had the CV to back up his claims.