Six Nations 2026: Ulster’s Bryn Ward eyes Irish debut after ‘surreal’ rise to Test scene

For someone so new to the unforgiving international rugby scene, Bryn Ward looked remarkably relaxed as he answered questions from the Irish press for the first time.

The 21-year-old sat in his chair with his arms folded, speaking with clarity and conviction after being called up to Andy Farrell’s squad ahead of Saturday’s match against Italy.

Life has flown by for Ward, the son of former Ireland international Andy and younger brother of Ulster team-mate Zak.

He made his Ulster debut from the start against the Lions in Johannesburg in October thanks to a last-minute call-up after Juarno Augustus failed a fitness test.

It wasn’t long before he attracted lofty praise. Of his man-of-the-match display in the celebratory derby win over Munster which resulted in his first try at senior level, Ulster boss Richie Murphy said the young back-rower’s efforts with ball in hand were “up there with the best ball-carriers in the world”.

With only four senior appearances to his name, Ward was named a member of Farrell’s Six Nations coaching panel.

After a few days of taking on Ireland’s best players in Portugal, Ward was named to Ireland’s XV for last week’s match against England A in Limerick.

Although it was a very frustrating night, Ward was able to shine after the 52-14 defeat, earning a call back to Farrell’s squad.

Now he finds himself pushing for his first international cap, sensing an opportunity to show Irish rugby fans a glimpse of a future with the national team on the decline.

“It’s been a really surreal couple of months, which is something I cherish,” Ward said.

“I don’t want to get ahead of myself. Obviously the goal is to play for Ireland but I’ve really enjoyed it and I’m trying to take each step as it comes.”