Simon Zebo has revealed how he was among the last players to receive word that he had been selected as part of Joe Schmidt's Ireland squad for the Rugby World Cup.
Following the six hour meeting between Joe Schmidt and his management, the players were informed of their fate through somewhat crafty measures close shortly before 11pm. Those who received a phone call from Schmidt were out of the squad while those who were sent an email with the schedule for the week were the chosen 31.
Speaking to RTÉ earlier today, Simon Zebo expressed his relief at getting that all important email:
Competition is really high and nobody really had their place nailed down. It was a nervous night's sleep but the squad has been named now and it's an exciting time for us.
It's an incredibly proud moment for me and my family. It's always been a dream of mine to play in the Rugby World Cup so I'm very grateful to have the green jersey.
As much as we may debate Schmidt's selection, what's done is done and now the 31 one players who did get that all important email have a World Cup to look forward to. Before that however, there's the clash against England this Saturday where Zebo will be hoping to do enough to impress the Irish coach once more.
