Ireland hooker Gus McCarthy has credited the relentless competition within Leinster Rugby as a key factor in his growth as a player. The 21-year-old, who recently earned his fifth Test cap in Ireland's dominant 34-5 victory over Georgia, is thriving under the pressure of competing with world-class teammates like Dan Sheehan and Ronan Kelleher.

Learning from the Best

Despite limited game time during the latter stages of the United Rugby Championship (URC) and Champions Cup, McCarthy views his time at Leinster as an invaluable learning experience. "I haven't played a huge amount, but I did get quite a bit of game-time in the middle of the season," he said. "It's great to learn from the best—some seriously good talent."

The Power of Competition

McCarthy emphasized the positive impact of the constant competition within the squad. "The competition is endless, and it keeps you on your toes. It's very positive," he noted. This environment has not only sharpened his skills but also prepared him for the challenges of international rugby.

Looking Ahead to Portugal

Ireland is set to conclude their summer tour with a match against Portugal in Lisbon. McCarthy highlighted the importance of preparation for this encounter. "Portugal are a very, very attacking and dangerous side. We've watched a lot of them. They aren't to be taken lightly," he said. "We're going to put a lot of prep in and make sure we're all guns loaded for Saturday. We're really, really looking forward to the challenge."

A Bright Future

With a strong support system at Leinster and the guidance of Ireland's coaching staff, McCarthy is poised to continue his upward trajectory in the rugby world. His dedication and resilience serve as a testament to the benefits of thriving in a competitive environment.