Tom Ahern named in Irish Six Nations squad
Ireland's Tom Ahern has been named in Irish Six Nations squad. Photo: INPHO/Ben Brady
Ardmore's Tom Ahern will fly the Déise flag during the upcoming Six Nations, as he was one of seven Munster men named in Andy Farrell's squad last week.
Ahern has had his minutes on the pitch hampered by various knocks and niggles this season, playing eight times for Munster, including six stars, going the full 80 minutes on four occasions.
Yet his time spent in camp with Ireland over the past couple of years has seen the soon-to-be 26-year-old entrusted with a spot amongst the 20 forwards named in Farrell's 37-man squad.
With Ryan Baird and Cormac Izuchukwu still sidelined, Ahern is one of only two men at Farrell's disposal - the other being Munster captain Tadhg Beirne - that can comfortably play both lock and blindside flanker.
Baird had begun to replace Peter O’Mahony in the Ireland number six jersey, but his absence has created an opening, and Ahern is the player that most closely aligns to Baird's profile - a big, powerful, rangy athlete, who offers a serious threat at the lineout as well as in open play.
In his eight appearances so far this season, the Waterford man has five lineout steals to his name as well as three clean breaks, five defenders beaten, 31 carries and 199 metres made. He's no slouch.
Affectionately known as the 'Slim Reaper', Ahern has come a long way from playing for St Augustine's back in his youth. His most likely opportunity to see game-time during the championship may come off the bench, potentially against Italy or Wales.
France (A) Thursday, February 5th.
Italy (H) Saturday, February 14th.
England (A) Saturday, February 21st.
Wales (H) Friday, March 6th.
Scotland (H) Saturday, March 14th.
