Ex-Ulster star assesses 6 Nations squad as he questions 'elder statesmen' picks

Tony McWhirter admits Andy Farrell probably got it “about right” by naming six Ulster players in his squad for this year’s Six Nations.

Tom Stewart, Tom O’Toole, Iain Henderson, Nick Timoney, Jacob Stockdale and Stuart McCloskey have all been included in Farrell’s panel for the 2024 championships.

Ireland kick-off their campaign away to France on February 2, but how many Ulster players start that crunch game in Paris remains to be seen.

McWhirter believes Ulster captain Henderson has the best chance of featuring prominently, but believes the other five Ravenhill representatives have earned their chance.

And he singled out number eight Timoney for special praise after finally booking his place in the Irish squad.

The former European Cup winner told BBC Sportsound: “I think six Ulster players is about right. First of all I am delighted for Nick Timoney being rewarded.

Photo showing former Ulster number eight Tony McWhirter

“He has knocked on the door long and hard, and loudly, for the past couple of seasons. And I think if he missed out he would be wondering what he has to do.

“I think the rest of the lads pick themselves: (Stuart) McCloskey, (Jacob) Stockdale, Tom O’Toole is in there. It is the sort of squad consistent with what Andy Farrell picks.”

McWhirter says he was surprised to see a couple of Ireland’s “elder statesmen” continue in Farrell’s squad, players who he says are unlikely to feature in the next World Cup.

He added: “I am a little bit surprised with two or three of the elder statesmen all still to be there. Obviously Peter O’Mahony has got the captaincy, Conor Murray is another one.

“Guys who are working towards the end of their careers and probably won’t be there for the next World Cup. There will be a changing of the guard over the next season or two, and Farrell will want a positive Six Nations.

“So I think from an Ulster point of view, the guys in there are all worth their place. How many will be in the starting XV?

“Iain Henderson is probably your best bet. The rest might have to wait on an injury along the way.”

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