United Rugby Championship: Irish team’s participation ‘big learning experience’ – Postlethwaite

Ulster midfielder Jude Postlethwaite says his involvement with the Irish national team in recent weeks has been a “huge learning experience” and has given him extra motivation to put himself in a position to make his international debut.

Postlethwaite has been called up to the Irish Six Nations by head coach Andy Farrell and although he has not been on the field of play yet, he says training with the squad and being part of the group has benefited his development.

The 23-year-old is one of five players released by Ireland to take part in Saturday’s United Rugby Championship match against the Ospreys.

“It’s been a great learning experience. I got a phone call from Andy Farrell three weeks ago and it was absolutely surreal,” Postlethwaite told BBC Sport NI.

“The first week in Portugal I learned a lot, then the last few weeks have been amazing.

“It’s good to be out there involved and be around all the players. You learn from the best players I looked up to when I was younger.

“It gives me a little drive [to win a first cap] This is clearly where I want to be, and I keep up with every detail there, so that if the opportunity comes I can take advantage of it.”

Postlethwaite’s Ulster centre-mate Stuart McCluskey has earned rave reviews for his performances in the green jersey in recent weeks as Farrell’s side recorded victories over Italy and England following their opening defeat to France.

“Stuart has been amazing. I always knew he could put on these kinds of performances and I’m so happy for him.”

“It comes down to the type of person he is, he’s very determined, and it’s great for him to get this opportunity to show the world what he can do.”

Ulster have won seven of their 10 matches so far at URC and are eight points behind leaders Glasgow Warriors, with a game in hand against Edinburgh.

Their opponents this weekend, the Ospreys, are ninth in the standings, 11 points behind Richie Murphy’s side.

“Every match is important for us and we are ready for a big performance this weekend.”

“Any details I can bring from the Irish camp to help the players can only help and I am very excited to be playing there again.”