'We’re very confident about Stuart' - O'Connell backs McCloskey to deliver 

BIG BOOTS TO FILL: Stuart McCloskey during the Ireland captain's run at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin. Pic: Brendan Moran/Sportsfile

Paul O’Connell has backed Stuart McCloskey as a great replacement for the injured Robbie Henshaw after Ireland were forced to make a late change in midfield for Saturday’s Test against world champions South Africa.

Head coach Andy Farrell opted not to risk Henshaw after the British & Irish Lion centre experienced an issue with his hamstring in training on Thursday, handing McCloskey an opportunity at number 12 alongside Garry Ringrose.