Rónan Kelleher keen to build on a momentous month

Leinster hooker starts for Ireland against Japan on Saturday - a fortnight after training with the Lions in Jersey last month.

Ronan Kelleher aims to stake claim for No.2 jersey. Picture: INPHO/Ryan Byrne

Rónan Kelleher had an unexpected taste of life with the Lions but he will place the chance of a recall from Warren Gatland to the back of his mind and focus on Ireland’s objective this afternoon of revenge against Japan.

The Leinster hooker has an opportunity to stake his claim for the No. 2 jersey having been selected by Andy Farrell ahead of the more experienced Rob Herring for today’s Vodafone Summer Series Test against the Brave Blossoms and Kelleher, 23, will take to the Aviva Stadium pitch boosted by his two weeks training with the Lions in Jersey last month.