Ulster back-rower James McNabney opens up on horses, a brutal ACL setback and how his dad took the news of a first Ireland call-up.
James McNabney has gone from Ulster's hard-running back-row option to a name Irish rugby fans are talking about. The Ulster forward has earned his first Ireland call-up, and the story behind it is as grounded as the physical game he brings.
McNabney's reputation for farmer's strength follows him around, and he is happy to talk about the interests that shape him away from the pitch. Horse riding is one of them, a pastime that fits a player who relies on balance, power and toughness in contact.
The road hasn't been smooth. McNabney has also spoken about his ACL injury, the kind of setback that tests a player's patience and resolve. Coming back from a knee reconstruction is a long grind, and getting into the national conversation afterwards says plenty about his resilience.
The human side of the call-up may be the best part. McNabney shares how his dad reacted when the news landed, a moment that shows what a first Ireland nod means to a player and to the family who backed him along the way.
With Ireland's back-row competition as fierce as any in world rugby, McNabney still has plenty to prove. But a physical edge, a story of recovery and a growing profile at Ulster make him one to watch.
