Herring: 'I think for a guy his age he’s a very mature player'

Starting hooker Rob Herring referenced McCarthy’s strength and physique in assessing the lock’s contribution to the Ireland set-piece.

WORLD CUP DEBUT: Joe McCarthy will play in his first Rugby World Cup game when Ireland take on Romania in their opening game. Pic: ©INPHO/Dan Sheridan

He may be the baby of Ireland’s World Cup squad but Joe McCarthy will make his World Cup debut against Romania tomorrow surrounded by experienced team-mates who have nothing but respect for the giant lock.

McCarthy, 22, is line for his fourth cap since a Test debut off the bench against Australia last November and judging by the outpouring of admiration and affection for the rising Leinster star he will be well looked after against Romania, not that his 6ft 6ins, 18st 8lbs frame suggests he needs it.