Copeland targeting World Cup opening

Robin Copeland believes his decision to join Munster is already paying dividends after landing his first Ireland call-up.

The 26-year-old is one of seven uncapped players in Joe Schmidt’s training squad following a string of impressive performances for the Cardiff Blues.

Copeland will end his two-year stay at the Blues at the end of this season to return home to Ireland, having agreed a two-year contract with Munster.

He took the difficult decision to leave Wales to boost his international prospects ahead of next year’s World Cup but admits the call to the national squad came sooner than expected.

Wexford-born Copeland said: “It’s very pleasing to get a look-in. It was pretty unexpected to be honest, I didn’t think I would get a look in until I went and tried to prove myself back home in Ireland.

“But I am delighted to have the chance. The overseas player rule still applies so my game time won’t be too big, so I’m not going to get too ahead of myself.

“It’s just nice to get my foot in the door and give myself something to build on. Hopefully if it goes well there are summer tours and the autumn internationals and it all leads towards the World Cup.”

Copeland started his career playing age-grade rugby for Leinster after graduating from St Mary’s College before signing for Plymouth Albion in the English second tier. He was a huge hit at the South West club, scoring five tries in 20 appearances and was soon snapped up by Championship promotion hopefuls Rotherham Titans. Another fine season in the Championship prompted the Blues to swoop for his signature and he has impressed both at number eight and flanker.

Copeland said: “There are always things to work on but I am happy with how things are progressing. It’s nice to get a bit of recognition but I don’t think my game is fully there yet. I have only been playing number eight for about 14 or 15 months.

Copeland will battle with Munster stalwart James Coughlan for a starting spot in Rob Penny’s side but he is seen as a long-term replacement for the 33-year-old.

His bigger challenge will be to oust Jamie Heaslip and Sean O’Brien from the Ireland team.

Copeland’s chances could be helped if Heaslip opts to leave Leinster for a big money move to French giants Toulon with a decision on his future expected to come later this week.

“I know it’s going to be a big challenge to try and nail down a place on the Munster team, never mind the Ireland side,” said Copeland.

“There’s a lot of competition, especially at back row. It’s always a very tough place to try and seal a spot because there are some very good players there.

“I know there are some big challenges ahead in the next eight to 10 months. I am sad to be leaving the Blues. But it’s great to be going back home.

“I am trying not to get too ahead of myself and think about the future too much. I have to take things game by game and let my rugby do the talking.”