Looking back on Ireland's victorious Six Nations campaign, one of the biggest positives was the form of Joe McCarthy. Coming into the starting team for the first time, the Leinster man played some incredible rugby over the course of the championship.
The 23-year old is a tantalising prospect. He possesses the type of physical profile that is quite rare in Irish rugby, one that South Africa have used to their benefit during the last two World Cups.
McCarthy still has plenty of room to grow as a player, but he is already a top class operator.
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Rugby: Joe McCarthy reveals fame has led to plenty of slagging
Standing at 6-foot-6 and sporting that distinctive hairstyle, Joe McCarthy certainly stands out from the crowd. He has already become a very popular figure among rugby fans, something that led to some gentle ribbing from his friends.
Speaking ahead of Leinster's game against Leicester this weekend, the Ireland star revealed how his recent rise has led to a lot more attention when he is out in public.
There was a few kids in autograph alley had a mullet [last week]. A few better mullets than my hair anyway. I’m sure they’ve been growing it for a bit longer than mine.
You definitely notice it. Leinster is big when you’re in it, but the Ireland Six Nations is way bigger. It’s kind of crazy.
You do get noticed a bit more, so it is a bit strange. Even when you’re with your mates and someone asks you for a photo, your mates are like ‘Jesus, look at that, who do you think you are now?!’ It’s all pretty positive, it’s grand.
Joe McCarthy looks set to have a long and successful Irish rugby career, and considering that he is still only 23-years old, he is set to become an even more recognisable figure over the coming seasons.
He will be hoping that his friends stop slagging him on the subject eventually.
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