Malone: Player development is working

Munster’s British and Irish Cup coach Peter Malone has backed the national system of identification and development of players, despite recent headlines highlighting young talent now plying their trade in England and France.

Erstwhile former Leinster U20 scrum-half James Hart struck gold with Grenoble last week when helping his side shock Racing Metro at home. He is just one of a seemingly growing number of Irish youngsters getting exposure in France and England.

Malone reckons it is inevitable some players will slip through the net for one reason or another, whether by not being spotted by the provinces or developing a little later. However, he insists the Irish set-up is a very good one.