Think how Robert Baloucoune must have felt when he was picked to start on the wing for Ireland against South Africa in November of 2022. The Ulster wing was 25 and this third cap was his biggest chance yet with James Lowe injured and the world champions in town. You know, it had been a while and playing for Ulster was even looking a bit dreadful (sic). Mack Hansen started on the right wing 19 times during his own long spell on the outside looking in. I've seen stuff about Eddie as well, and the amount of support that he's actually got from Cork as well has been unbelievable.

Source: Irish Examiner February 21, 2026 08:20 UTC