Deans: "O’Connell Gets Better Year To Year"

As former Australia boss Robbie Deans prepares to take charge of the Barbarians against Ireland at Thomond Park on May 28th, he gives his thoughts on Ireland’s recent 6 Nations title defence and looks at the enduring influence and ability of Munster-man Paul O’Connell.

Deans has watched Ireland’s development at close quarters. His Australia side were beaten by them in the pool stages of the 2011 World Cup after registering wins at the Aviva Stadium in 2008 and 2010.

And he expects Schmidt’s team to develop the all-round game that saw them finish this year’s 6 Nations by putting Scotland to the sword 40-10 to successfully defend their title.

"Ireland have got a real depth of belief there now and they’ve had some consistency in recent times,” said Deans.

“They’ve got an experienced group but also a very vibrant group, so they’ll be looking with a lot of confidence towards the World Cup.

"Essentially they’ve worked very hard – you can see it in their conditioning – they’ve got a real clarity in the way they want to play the game and it shows. It makes it easy for the playing group to bring what they’ve got to the table.

"It was a good performance against England – it probably surprised a few and that was a good English side – and I think they’ll be better again come World Cup time. It showed their maturity. Joe Schmidt is keeping them very focused, that’s evident.”

Deans also urged Paul O’Connell – Player of the Tournament in the 6 Nations at the age of 35 – to think twice about hanging up his boots after the tournament.

"Paul's stature in the world game is massive and he’s got a huge amount of respect around the globe,” said Deans.

"I noticed the other day that he said he wouldn’t necessarily close the door on the likelihood of further rugby and that’s a good thing because he probably gets better year to year! He’s certainly an immense part of the Ireland game. He will leave a big void for someone to fill."

Deans will lead a multinational Barbarians side against Ireland and England in May – and he insists they will uphold the traditions of the famous invitation side which came into being 125 years ago.

"To me the Barbarians concept is everything that’s good about the game,” said Deans.

"It’s about the team aspect, the camaraderie of the game, looking to play positively and constructively, being prepared to take some risks and also wanting to win.

“Limerick is the heart of Ireland and the public there will really add to the occasion. Then you’ll have an Irish team that will be playing for World Cup spots and the BaaBaas team who will want to maintain their traditions and add to the spectacle. It should be great.”
Ireland v Barbarians, Thursday May 28^th at Thomond Park – KO 7:45pm.

Tickets range from €;30 to €;55 with Family Packages available from €;50. Purchase online here, from the Munster Rugby Ticket Offices at Thomond Park and Irish Independent Park or by calling 0818 719 300.