Ulster's Jamie Benson and James McNabney have earned their first senior Ireland call-ups for November's Nations Championship fixtures.
Two Ulster players are heading to Ireland camp for the first time. Jamie Benson and James McNabney have been named in the national squad for November's Nations Championship matches, a major step in both careers.
The call-ups reward the pair for their form in an Ulster shirt and show Ireland's selectors are looking at fresh options as the new competition begins. For both players, an invitation to train alongside the country's best is a landmark moment, whether or not a debut follows.
The Nations Championship brings a new international rugby format, and squad depth will matter over a demanding schedule. Bringing in uncapped players lets the coaching staff assess them in a high-intensity Test environment and widen the pool for the campaign.
For Ulster, two players in the Ireland setup is a boost for the province. Benson and McNabney now have the chance to turn a first call-up into a lasting place in the squad.
