SA-born Kleyn books World Cup place

– Ireland lock Devin Toner was the surprise omission from Joe Schmidt’s World Cup squad yesterday, as Jean Kleyn edged out the experienced Leinster man less than a month after making his international debut.

A near ever-present throughout Schmidt’s six years in charge, the 2.10m tall Toner’s lineout abilities were sacrificed for Kleyn’s power up front after the South African-born lock qualified to play for Ireland just last month.

“I’ve coached Dev for 10 years and he’s not just a lineout champion for us, he’s such a good player and an absolutely quality person. That was an incredibly tough conversation,” Schmidt told the Irish Rugby Football Association’s website.

“With Jean Kleyn, we probably

Dublin

don’t have a specialist tighthead second row as such. It’s a balance we’re looking for across that squad of 31. Kleyn fitted that and Tadhg Beirne gives you the versatility of both a second row and a back row.”

Schmidt was able to name a strong squad after no major injury concerns emerged since flankers Sean O’Brien and Dan Leavy were ruled out at the end of last season, meaning reserve flyhalf Joey Carbery travels while recovering from injury.

The other tight calls were on the periphery with Luke McGrath favoured over Kieran Marmion as back-up scrumhalf, Rhys Ruddock pipping Jordi Murphy in the backrow and Will Addison unlucky not to make it as a versatile option in the backs.

Ireland, who face Japan, Scotland, Russia and Samoa in Pool A, will complete their preparations against Wales on Saturday before they open their World Cup campaign against the Scots on September 22. – Reuters