Tony Ward, writing in The Irish Independent, puts forward his fears for the future of rugby in Connacht should their reliance on overseas players continue.
"In Limerick, what should have been a tough test for Munster turned out to be a one-sided romp. It was reassurance for Tony McGahan that he has plenty in reserve while, for Michael Bradley, it was a reality check of sorts. No one knows better than the long-serving Connacht head coach the extent of his limitations. His battle has been an admirable one. That said, I do find the Connacht situation perplexing.
"Let me declare my take here. I believe in the four-province, three-tier system that has served Irish rugby so well. I support the need for a 'shop window' professional side in the west. Should we reach the stage where cutbacks need to be made then I have little doubt as to where the IRFU will first look.
"Underage rugby in Connacht is thriving. Interest in the game is on a high. It is imperative the best of emerging talent has something to strive for.
"The aim for every young Connacht boy should be to wear that green Connacht jersey with pride. The desire should be there to become the Gavin Duffy, the Conor O'Loughlin, the Johhny O'Connor or the John Muldoon of tomorrow."
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