CON PAIR ON THE UP & UP

TOM DALY says involvement with Ireland this year has made Connacht’s Cian Prendergast and Mack Hansen “different animals” to before.

Hansen (above left) made his Test debut in the Six Nations opener against Wales in March and played his part in Ireland’s historic tour victory in New Zealand, starting in the two wins.

After a stand-out season for Connacht, 23-year-old back row Prendergast’s (above right) first involvement with Ireland came in the two games against the Maori All Blacks as part of that tour in June and he started in both games, with Ireland losing the first fixture but winning the last.

“You look at the likes of Cian and Mack, who were new into the Irish squad, they’ve come back different animals altogether,” said Connacht stalwart Daly (inset).

“They’re speaking a lot more in meetings, have become a lot more vocal, just being part of that.

“I think the whole country got a buzz off that. Having the lads come in and bring a bit of leadership in our group is brilliant.”

The duo have returned to the squad in timely fashion for the trip to South Africa this week, with Connacht facing the Stormers – the URC title holders – on Saturday before taking on the Bulls on Friday week.

“Then you’ve the likes of Bundee and Finlay, who have been long-time leaders in Connacht rugby, coming back as well,” added Daly.

“Just having them with the group this week is going to give us an extra boost of confidence. We know how tough it is down there but when we have a strong squad like this we can go with a lot of confidence.”