Johnny Sexton's brilliant Irish debut

Johnny Sexton's brilliant Irish debut

It is difficult to think of Irish rugby in the modern era without the face of Johnny Sexton springing to mind.

The incumbent Irish captain has been a pillar of strength for Leinster for the better part of 15 years while he first became involved with the national side in 2009.

It was a cold and wet November night in Dublin when the 24 year old ran out onto the pitch, with an air of purpose that would somewhat characterise his career going forward, to take on the white jerseys of Fiji.

His first touch in the international arena sent a welcome wave of excitement through the crowd as he recovered a kicked ball and feinted a clearance kick before charging bravely up the field to take on the Fijian defence.

His performance throughout the rest of the game earned him the man-of-the-match title as the Fijians could not contend with his wonderful kicking game, resolute defence and lethal vision.


Ireland ran out convincing winners in the end, 41-6, and Sexton had made sure that he would be a regular feature in the side as his future unfolded.


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