Four Irish Rugby Players Added To Barbarians Squad For Thomond Park Clash
Familiar faces.
Former Ireland, Lions and Munster lock donncha O’Callaghan, Munster duo James Cronin and Brian Scott and Leinster and Ireland back-row Jordi Murphy have been added to the Barbarians squad to face Tonga.
The famous touring side arrived in Limerick today ahead of their Thomond Park clash after a thrilling encounter with England at Twickenham on Saturday.
Former England lock Geoff Parling, Australian winger Taqele Naiyaravoro and Castres’ David Smith have also been added to the already star-studded line-up.
Munster loosehead prop Cronin says it’s a great honour to be selected.
“I was watching the (New Zealand) game on TV at the weekend and chatting with my buddies about it, and it’s a special thing.” Cronin said
“You get to wear your club socks and represent where you’re from, and it’s such a prestigious club. It’s an opportunity everyone wants.
“I know what a great honour it is to play for the Barbarians and I’ve seen some unbelievable players over the years and I know what a privilege it is to wear the shirt.
“There are players coming in from all round the world, all great players, and it’s fantastic to be involved and to do it at Thomond Park.”
Barbarians squad
Forwards
Willie Britz (Sunwolves)
Sam Carter (Brumbies & Australia)
James Cronin (Munster)
Simone Favaro (Fiamme Oro)
Jordi Murphy (Leinster)
Donncha O’Callaghan (Worcester Warriors)
Geoff Parling (Munakata Sanix Blues)
Brian Scott (Munster)
Ruan Smith (Toyota Verblitz)
Adriaan Strauss (Bulls & South Africa)
Akker van der Merwe (Sharks)
Jacques van Rooyen (Lions)
Backs
Vince Aso (Hurricanes)
George Bridge (Crusaders)
Richard Buckman (Highlanders)
Robert du Preez (Stormers)
Andy Ellis (Kobelco Steelers & New Zealand)
Taqele Naiyaravoro (Waratahs & Australia)
Julian Savea (Hurricanes & New Zealand)
David Smith (Castres)
Nic Stirzaker (Rebels)
Harold Vorster (Lions)