Ireland’s Rugby World Cup campaign ended on a disappointing note as they came up just short against the All Blacks at the quarterfinal stage.
Despite topping pool b following a titanic struggle with reigning World Champions South Africa and a comprehensive thumping of Scotland, Tonga and Romania.
Ireland’s campaign will ultimately fall into the category of yet another last eight exit, albeit it was clear they were one of the top four teams at the tournament.
Heralded for their unwavering defence, Ireland’s highly organised attacking game perhaps didn’t always get the plaudits it deserved.
Under backs coach Mike Catt and Andy Farrell, the Irish attack was one of the most potent in World Rugby for the past three years.
Having struggled initially as the players got used to the new structures, the attacking game grew year on year under the former England international and 2003 World Cup winner.
New Horizons
Whilst his time in green has been by and large enjoyable, it would now appear as though Catt is set to depart his role with the national team.
Based on reports in the Irish media, the 52-year-old Catt has already moved his family back to England and is likely to depart although he may play a role in the 2024 Six Nations.
Further reporting suggests that recently retired Ireland captain Johnny Sexton may be swiftly promoted to the role within Andy Farrell’s backroom staff.
Never Say Never
Speaking previously, Sexton did not rule out coaching but had initially suggested that he would not immediately go into coaching.
“Never say never, you never know what life is going to throw at you,” Sexton said.
“It wouldn’t be my plan straight away, if an offer came in, it wouldn’t be right for me to coach with guys I played with the last number of years.” He concluded.
Should Ireland’s top international points scorer change his mind, it would be a serious coup for Farrell as a direct replacement for Catt.
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