Stuart McCloskey, Ireland's robust centre, is toying with the idea of morphing into a hybrid player akin to South Africa's Andre Esterhuizen, who made headlines in 2025 by successfully shifting between the midfield and flank positions. Despite his enthusiasm, McCloskey faces skepticism from Ireland's forwards coach, Paul O’Connell, who appears unconvinced by the proposition.
Esterhuizen's tactical switch last year saw him bolster his international caps as he flexibly navigated through both roles, adding a dynamic edge to the Springboks' strategy. McCloskey, who shares a similar physique and sporadic international appearances with Esterhuizen, hopes to replicate this success. However, his attempts to persuade O’Connell have so far been met with laughter rather than serious consideration.
"I keep joking to Paul O’Connell that I should do it, and he laughs me off. He doesn’t really give me much time."
During a conversation on the Verdict podcast with Springboks legend Jean de Villiers, McCloskey candidly discussed his potential as a hybrid player. His modesty shone through as he doubted reaching Esterhuizen's level but remained open to exploring the role.
"Andre does it pretty well now. I don’t think it will ever be at his level... I’m 117 kilos, surely I could get the maul all going at that point."
De Villiers supported the idea, playfully nudging O’Connell to consider McCloskey for such a role, highlighting his physical attributes and skill set as ideal for the job. Despite the playful banter, McCloskey's hesitation about delving into forward's play and breakdown sessions under O’Connell’s tutelage suggests a reluctance that might be influencing O'Connell’s reservations.
McCloskey's ambition stems from his recent success in the Six Nations, where he stood out significantly. Yet, the looming return of key players like Bundee Aki and Robbie Henshaw could see him competing for a spot again. This backdrop makes his quest to diversify his on-field roles seem not just a personal ambition but a strategic move to cement his place in a competitive lineup.
The story of McCloskey’s hybrid role exploration reflects the evolving nature of rugby, where adaptability can pave the way for greater involvement and impact. Whether he will convince O’Connell and make a mark as Esterhuizen did remains a subplot worth watching in the unfolding narrative of international rugby.
2,100 posts
Stuart McCloskey, Ireland's robust centre, is toying with the idea of morphing into a hybrid player akin to South Africa's Andre Esterhuizen, who made headlines in 2025 by successfully shifting between the midfield and flank positions. Despite his enthusiasm, McCloskey faces skepticism from Ireland's forwards coach, Paul O’Connell, who appears unconvinced by the proposition.
Esterhuizen's tactical switch last year saw him bolster his international caps as he flexibly navigated through both roles, adding a dynamic edge to the Springboks' strategy. McCloskey, who shares a similar physique and sporadic international appearances with Esterhuizen, hopes to replicate this success. However, his attempts to persuade O’Connell have so far been met with laughter rather than serious consideration.
"I keep joking to Paul O’Connell that I should do it, and he laughs me off. He doesn’t really give me much time."
During a conversation on the Verdict podcast with Springboks legend Jean de Villiers, McCloskey candidly discussed his potential as a hybrid player. His modesty shone through as he doubted reaching Esterhuizen's level but remained open to exploring the role.
"Andre does it pretty well now. I don’t think it will ever be at his level... I’m 117 kilos, surely I could get the maul all going at that point."
De Villiers supported the idea, playfully nudging O’Connell to consider McCloskey for such a role, highlighting his physical attributes and skill set as ideal for the job. Despite the playful banter, McCloskey's hesitation about delving into forward's play and breakdown sessions under O’Connell’s tutelage suggests a reluctance that might be influencing O'Connell’s reservations.
McCloskey's ambition stems from his recent success in the Six Nations, where he stood out significantly. Yet, the looming return of key players like Bundee Aki and Robbie Henshaw could see him competing for a spot again. This backdrop makes his quest to diversify his on-field roles seem not just a personal ambition but a strategic move to cement his place in a competitive lineup.
The story of McCloskey’s hybrid role exploration reflects the evolving nature of rugby, where adaptability can pave the way for greater involvement and impact. Whether he will convince O’Connell and make a mark as Esterhuizen did remains a subplot worth watching in the unfolding narrative of international rugby.