Ireland prop John Hayes’s international career is in doubt
Ireland coach Declan Kidney has stated that John Hayes's international career has not come to an end, despite the coach’s decision to drop the prop for the Autumn International Test against South Africa on Saturday 6 November.
The 37-year-old was left out of the Irish 22-man squad for the first time in over a decade based on the strength of selection.
“Not at all is this the end for John, definitely not. It hasn't been easy to leave guys out, but that's my job. Guys will still have a role to play in the next 12 months," said Kidney.
Hayes’s Munster colleague Tony Buckley is included in the starting 15 after impressing on the summer tour of New Zealand.
Hayes lost his place to Buckley on the tour due to an illness and the Irish coach has decided to retain Buckley as the tight head prop.
"Tony took his break during the summer tour very well and he's backed that up with a few good performances since. John was unfortunate because he fell ill at the start of the tour and didn't get his energy back, so didn't get a go at it," added Kidney.
Versatile prop Tom Court has been selected ahead of Hayes because he can play at both tight head and loose head and will provide cover for Cian Healy and Buckley.
“Tom Court has been playing 80 minutes recently and the advantage for him is that he's the one prop who has had time on both sides of the scrum. In a 22-man squad you have to look at that tactically,” said the Irish coach.
Hayes’ future in the Irish team is now in doubt, but the veteran is still expected to feature in some of the upcoming Tests.
In addition, the prop who has won 102 caps is expected to still make next year’s World Cup if he is fit in what is likely to be his last appearance for Ireland.
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