Stuart McCloskey: Ireland's Rugby Veteran Embracing Leadership and Experience

When Stuart McCloskey last represented Ireland in Georgia a decade ago, his world was vastly different. Fresh from winning Ulster's Young Player of the Year award in his first full senior rugby season, he joined the Emerging Ireland squad for the now-defunct Tbilisi Cup in 2015. At just 22, McCloskey admits he was "pretty naive." Fast forward to today, with nearly a decade of Test experience and over 200 Ulster caps, he has matured into a seasoned player, now embracing his role as the elder statesman in Ireland's squad.

Embracing the Role of the Elder Statesman

Finlay Bealham's British and Irish Lions call-up has left McCloskey as the senior figure in interim head coach Paul O'Connell's Ireland squad. Joking about Bealham "absolutely doing him in," McCloskey acknowledges O'Connell's playful jabs about his age. Despite being the only squad member over 30, he seems content, even teasing Ulster teammates Jacob Stockdale and Nick Timoney about outlasting them.

"I'm happy to be the calm head," says McCloskey, who will turn 33 in August. "I feel like that's normally what I am in these teams, no matter who's playing around me."

A Solid Career Despite Challenges

McCloskey's journey hasn't been without challenges. Despite not being offered a place in Ulster's academy after leaving Bangor Grammar, he has carved out a solid career. With 19 caps to his name, he has proven his worth, even amidst stiff competition from Bundee Aki, Robbie Henshaw, and Garry Ringrose.

"I don't think I'm doing a lot wrong," he says. "When I've played, I've gone well. There are four very good centers in the lads, and I'm not too far off."

Looking Ahead: Georgia and Portugal Tests

McCloskey is expected to partner Jamie Osborne in the midfield in Saturday's Test against Georgia. Osborne, known for his versatility, has impressed McCloskey with his adaptability and skill.

"Jamie's been great. He's the kind of guy that slips into any position fairly well," McCloskey said. "He's physical, he's got all the skills, and everything you'd want in a rugby player."

Future Aspirations

McCloskey aims to use the upcoming matches against Georgia and Portugal to stake his claim ahead of a glamorous autumn program, including a rematch against the All Blacks in Chicago and a home Test against South Africa. His focus remains on impressing O'Connell and continuing to contribute to Ireland's success.

"I'm trying to get picked this week!" McCloskey said with a laugh.

As McCloskey continues to embrace his role as Ireland's elder statesman, his experience and leadership will be invaluable to the team's future endeavors.