Aussie born breakout star of URC gets Ireland call-up

Uncapped Connacht wing Mack Hansen will train with Ireland’s squad this week ahead of Saturday’s autumn international against Japan in Dublin.

Australia-born Hansen has scored four tries in five appearances since joining the province on a two-year deal from the Brumbies in the summer.

The 23-year-old represented his native country at under-20 level but is eligible for Ireland as his mother hails from Cork.

British and Irish Lion Robbie Henshaw, who was left out of the 38-man squad named by head coach Andy Farrell on October 20 following a foot injury, will continue his rehabilitation programme under the direction of the Ireland medical team.

The Irish Rugby Football Union has also announced that Munster second row Thomas Ahern and Leinster back Jamie Osborne have returned to their respective provinces having trained with the national team last week.

After facing the Brave Blossoms this weekend, Ireland have an Aviva Stadium appointment with New Zealand the following Saturday before hosting Argentina at the same venue on Sunday, November 21.

Signed by the Brumbies straight out of school in 2018, the former Junior Wallaby honed his craft for the Gungahlin Eagles in the John I Dent Cup before making his Super Rugby debut against the NSW Waratahs in 2019.

2020 was a breakout year for Hansen, earning his starting debut at fullback for the Brumbies against the Melbourne Rebels before famously kicking the winning penalty goal to defeat the Queensland Reds after the 80th minute at GIO Stadium.

Brumby number 216, the versatile Hansen started every game in 2021 on the wing, before announcing his departure for Connacht.