Veteran Mike Ross still happy to answer Ireland call

When a friend and colleague retires it always gives pause for thought and Mike Ross is no exception, but Eoin Reddan’s decision to quit the game has not prompted a rethink for the Ireland prop.

The much-decorated tighthead may be almost a year older at 36 than his soon to be ex-provincial and Test team-mate but though he accepts his career is nearer its end than its start, he will remain willing to serve the Ireland side as long as his services are required by head coach Joe Schmidt.

“I still want to be putting my hand up but nothing is ever guaranteed. We all know that as professionals. I mean, I could go out in pre-season and do my knee, you just don’t know,” Ross said following his recall for tomorrow’s third and final Test against South Africa.