Ian Madigan: ‘It is something I embrace going into big games’

Do not expect Ian Madigan to buckle under the burden of expectation tomorrow after being handed the play-making role for Ireland against World Cup minnows Romania. The out-half has been dealing with it since he was a child.

Whether it was in a starring role for Blackrock College, on a gaelic football pitch with Kilmacud Crokes or the Pro12 with Leinster, Madigan has backed himself to produce the goods and repay the belief those around him have placed at his door.

Tomorrow at Wembley will be no different after Madigan was handed the reins in Johnny Sexton’s absence ahead of squad-mate Paddy Jackson.