Daily Mirror (Northern Ireland)
Leo hailing an unsung Blues hero
LEO CULLEN has hailed Michael Bent as one of the great ‘unsung heroes of Leinster rugby’.
The New Zealander has announced his decision to retire at the end of the season after nine years in Ireland.
“We will all be sorry to say goodbye to Michael Bent, who will undoubtedly go down as one of the unsung heroes of Leinster Rugby,” said Cullen.
“Since arriving in
Ireland and shortly after going on to make his Ireland debut, Michael has gone on to represent Leinster 155 times.
“With so many demands on our squad, including multiple players away on international duty, Benty has delivered rock-solid performances season after season, as well as providing much-needed leadership and guidance for the younger players. There is huge affection for Michael within the group.”
Bent, who turns 35 at the weekend, said: “I’m aware that not everyone gets the opportunity to have nine years with a team, especially not one the calibre of Leinster so for that in itself, I’m incredibly grateful.
“I’ve been lucky enough to play alongside and against some of the greats with a team that has achieved so much.
“My career has seen its share of ups and downs and I’m grateful for it all as it has led me to where I am today both professionally and within my life outside of rugby.
“I owe this opportunity and the last nine years to my grandmother, Myrtle, and her incredible journey from Rathmines in Dublin to New Zealand all those years ago. I hope I’ve made her proud and my only wish is that she could have been there to see me play and to pull on the blue of Leinster and the green of Ireland.”