Kiss urges Ireland hopefuls to step up

The last of Ireland’s returning British Irish Lions are back in action this evening as Munster host Leinster at Thomond Park.

Sean O’Brien, who has 15 appearances in the RBS 6 Nations to his name, returns for Leinster while Paul O’Connell starts for Munster and Conor Murray is among the replacements.

Kiss admits the prospect of an all-Ireland club match is the perfect preparation for the coaching staff, led by Joe Schmidt, to assess who is in the best shape ahead of next month’s internationals – and he is looking forward to seeing who shapes up.

“This is the real mettle, that’s where you test yourself,” Kiss told 2FM.

“November is not far away and we’re looking forward to the weekend because, while these games are not what you select finally on, you certainly see some guys up against each other and see where they are.

“It is getting closer and closer, the players know it, and the stakes are rising.

“Players know that decisions will be based on performances. How they perform with their province, how they perform in training and feedback from their coaches.

“Put your hands up and you have a chance. We are not wiping anybody out, everybody has a chance.”

Article source: http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/british-and-irish-lions-v-queensland-reds-player-ratings-8650576.html

Kiss urges Ireland hopefuls to step up