If Cian Healy gets called into the game from the substitutions this Saturday at Twickenham, he will equal Ronan O’Gara’s record of 128 appearances, leaving him only five behind Brian O’Driscoll’s all-time record. When asked about his feelings towards the opportunity, Healy asserts that his drive is not the number of games he plays, but the triumphs achieved with the Irish team. Healey mentions his plan to count his medals, not his games played once he retires. He states that he’s trying to make the most of his limited playtime, especially with the involvement of Andrew Porter, a tough competitor, in the game. Interestingly, Hugo Keenan, a player who has been utilized the most by coach Andy Farrell, is likely to resume his place after missing the Welsh match due to an injury. Also speculated to return is the 6-2 split on the substitutes’ bench, which includes Healy.
Meanwhile, just like Healey, Rhasidat Adeleke is focused on winning. She’s hoping to bring gold home from Paris in this Summer’s tournament. Adeleke, hailing from Dublin, has a packed few months ahead of her – she is set to finish her degree from the University of Texas in May while she also gears up for the Olympics.
Rory Beggan, the goalkeeper from Monaghan, is in America at present, hoping to score a professional NFL contract along with three other Irishmen including Mark Jackson from Wicklow, Down’s Charlie Smyth, and former Connacht rugby full-back Darragh Leader. An analysis of what lay ahead for this group is provided by Ciarán Murphy. In addition, Gordon Manning investigated the results of last year’s experimental hurling rules regarding handpass and puckout.
The Arnold Palmer Invitational in golf is set to feature Shane Lowry, who is attending courtesy of a sponsor’s invitation. He will be one of three Irish attendees, joining Rory McIlroy and Seamus Power, as covered by Philip Reid.
Last week, the world said goodbye to comedian Richard Lewis at the age of 76. Renowned for his love of the New York Knicks and his quest for a woman who would not, under any circumstances, douse him in lamb’s blood in the presence of dear friends – Richard was truly unique.
In television sports news, this week Ireland celebrates their inaugural Test victory over Afghanistan and, undeterred, they’re set to face them again today in an ODI matchup (available on Premier Sports 1 from 11.30am). Meanwhile, the Arnold Palmer Invitational, hosted in Florida, offers a star-studded participant list with Rory McIlroy and Scottie Scheffler leading the charge (broadcast on Sky Sports Golf, 12.30pm-11pm).
Later today, football enthusiasts can indulge in a variety of matches from the Europa League and Europa Conference League – options include Sparta Prague versus Liverpool (viewable on Virgin Media Two and TNT Sports 1, 5.45), Roma versus Brighton (airing on TNT Sports 2, 5.45), Ajax versus Aston Villa (televised on TNT Sports 3, 5.45) and lastly, Freiburg pitted against West Ham (televised on Virgin Media Two and TNT Sports 2, 8pm).
To stay updated with the latest sports news, analysis, and comments, sign up for Sport push alerts, delivered straight to your phone.