Conor Murray’s commitment to cause earns him another chance

Murray’s availability on Saturday demonstrates the player’s commitment to the cause while highlighting yet again sport’s ability to act as a form of salve at times of wider distress

OLD RELIABLE: Conor Murray prepares to feed Keith Earls during the Ireland Captain’s Run at Aviva Stadium. The Munster man brings experience and assurance to the number nine slot. Pic: INPHO/Dan Sheridan

Sport’s habit of overegging its own importance can be pre-baked on weekends like this. Talk of life and death barges carelessly into the discourse. Battle analogies proliferate on a field where they should have no place.

SIX NATIONS CHAMPIONSHIP

Your home for the latest news, views and analysis of this year's Six Nations Championship from our award winning sports team.

SIX NATIONS CHAMPIONSHIP

Your home for the latest news, views and analysis of this year's Six Nations Championship from our award winning sports team.