Full-back Hugo Keenan from Ireland has shared his thoughts on the upcoming rugby match against New Zealand, stating that the team is not approaching it as a “revenge game.” Even though the pain of being knocked out of the World Cup by the All Blacks in 2023 still lingers, Keenan believes that enough time has passed for a fresh perspective. He acknowledges that both squads and coaching staff have gone through changes since then, emphasizing that it is not about seeking revenge but rather focusing on the exciting challenge ahead.
Looking forward to the autumn series that includes matches against Argentina, Fiji, and Australia, Keenan admits that the World Cup exit was a disappointment. However, facing New Zealand is a significant opportunity to showcase their skills against one of the best teams in the world. Keenan expresses his admiration for the All Blacks and considers it an honor to compete against them, highlighting the respect he holds for their team.
The return of former Ireland captain Jonathan Sexton as a consultancy coach has brought a wealth of knowledge and experience to the team, with Keenan praising his invaluable contributions both on and off the field. Having played alongside Sexton at Leinster, Keenan credits him for his personal growth and development as a player, emphasizing the positive impact Sexton has had on his career.
After briefly representing Ireland’s sevens squad at the Paris Olympics, Keenan has seamlessly transitioned back to the 15s game, crediting his previous experience in sevens rugby for helping him progress as a player. He believes that his time in the sevens game was instrumental in his development, both offensively and defensively, and he values the lessons he learned from that format of the sport.
Keenan’s journey from sevens rugby to the 15s game has been a valuable learning experience, shaping him into the player he is today. As he looks ahead to the upcoming matches, Keenan is eager to continue his growth and contribute to the team’s success on the field. His versatile skill set and positive attitude make him a key player to watch in the upcoming autumn series, as Ireland prepares to take on formidable opponents in a series of thrilling matchups.
