I'm not sure I agree. He nearly always has double digit tackle figures, strong carries, excellent in the lineout and is bigger, heavier and stronger than O'Mahony. He basically seems to do everything O'Mahony does, but better. He just doesn't have an angry face.wixfjord wrote:I'd like to see Beirne at 6 too, but I don't think he's the answer to overcoming a massive pack like SA or England either. For me Ruddock would be perfect for that. Beirne is great when he's allowed to roam around and carry a bit wider, but like POM you need two other guys who will pick up some of the slack if he does that imo.
I also don't think Beirne is big or powerful enough to start at second row ahead of Dev, Ryan or Hendo btw and I think Joe might agree (which is why I have a sneaking suspicion that Beirne might not even make the plane...).
I do agree that he doesn't have the power to play lock at international level, but I think he could well be our best blindside option.