Tommy O’Donnell determined to earn Ireland recall

Having missed Ireland’s tour to South Africa in favour of his wedding, Tommy O’Donnell will be keeping his diary clear for November after setting the autumn Tests with New Zealand as his target for reclaiming a place in Joe Schmidt’s squad.

O’Donnell, 29, married Elisse in her native Kerry in June.

It meant foregoing, with Ireland head coach Schmidt’s blessing, the chance to face the Springboks in the three-Test series.