CJ Stander performance one of the truly great Test debuts in Irish rugby

CJ Stander’s performance? It had nothing on his rendition of Amhrán na bhFiann, apparently.

Awarded man of the match honours, after what must rank as one of the truly great Test debuts in Irish rugby history, the man from George in South Africa felt his vocal efforts were even better. Or so he insisted when asked how his oral audition rated.

“I was very emotional. It was my first time getting out there in front of the president, all the supporters, you know? I’d say 10 (out of ten),” he laughed. “I was happy enough to be next to Tommy (O’Donnell) and (Conor) Murray and when I got lost here and there it was easy enough to jump in. Donnacha Ryan stepped up this week and learned (sic) me a few words, learned me the whole thing, I tried to make him proud.”