Irish loss as Eoin Reddan retires

Rugby’s loss will be business’s gain but Joe Schmidt believes the retirement of Eoin Reddan after a spectacularly successful playing career need not leave Ireland short-handed at scrum-half.

Reddan, 35, yesterday announced he would be quitting the game he has graced with distinction, most prominently with Wasps, Leinster and Ireland, to pursue a new career. Rather than accept a new contract with Leinster for next season, the Limerick man will be entering the world of aircraft leasing, leaving Schmidt to assess just how deep his resources go when it comes to cover for first-choice scrum-half Conor Murray.

Reddan will be on the bench for tomorrow’s final Test with South Africa in his 71st appearance for Ireland, having been promoted ahead of Connacht’s Kieran Marmion for his first taste of tour action.