Ireland have ended any doubts over their hooker Rory Best’s participation in Saturday’s World Cup quarter-final against Wales. “Rory’s come up great,” said the defence coach. “He’s tip-top. He’s fine to start.”
The Ulster hooker damaged a shoulder in Ireland’s final pool match against Italy. Initially there were suggestions that Best might have to be replaced and on Wednesday Michael Sherry was told to get a plane to New Zealand.
However, since then the news has got better and better for Ireland until Kiss’s upbeat message on the eve of the match.
Best sprained the AC joint on his right shoulder at Otago Stadium and was locked in a race against time to prove his fitness for Ireland’s attempt to reach the semi-finals for the first time.
“We obviously had some precautions in place ready to cover him if he failed to pull through, but he’s in tip-top shape so full credit to him and the medics,” added Kiss.
Best’s outstanding form as part of a highly-impressive Ireland front row compelled the coach Declan Kidney to do everything possible to ensure his inclusion.
The No8 Jamie Heaslip is delighted the Ulster front row has been passed fit.
“It’s great Rory’s available because he’s one of the senior players in the team,” said Heaslip. “He’s an influential player and his darts in open play are great.”
