Rónan Kelleher focuses on La Rochelle but Lions role still to play for

Still only 23, Kelleher is one among a number of prospective Lions hookers in a crowded field

Rónan Kelleher during Leinster Rugby squad training at UCD. Photo by Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile

You couldn’t say that a 33-year old Paul O’Connell was a ‘bolter’ when he made the British and Irish Lions touring party to Australia eight years ago.

What you could say is that the Ireland forwards coach showed how critical just one game can be for a man’s chances.