Dynamic Connacht hooker is ready for Bourgoin

THERE is one word that keeps cropping up when Connacht Rugby hooker Sean Cronin is alluded to in press clippings and match reports. That word is ‘dynamic’, and in the Irish international’s case, it is certainly an apt description.

The Castletroy native– a modest, approachable young man, who is clearly enjoying his time in the West of Ireland – smiles at the description. “I suppose, it was always something I had in my game and you always, then, try to add little bits and work on your pace and stuff,” says Cronin as he relaxes in The Huntsman on Dublin Road.

“I am lucky enough to have the bit of pace and it has kind of helped me in my position as hooker. Strength and conditioning is also such a big part of the game, especially in the professional ranks now. So, having the bit of pace combined with size is a huge advantage, especially in Connacht, where we try to play a nice open brand of rugby. That suits me down to the ground. It (dynamism) is a good attribute to have.”

No doubt, it has stood Cronin in good stead so far, having already at such a young age for a front row forward – just 23 years – been capped for Ireland against Fiji (November 2009) and Wales (March 2010). Indeed, some would say his all-action approach to the game is very much reminiscent of an inspirational Keith Wood.

“You would look at great players like him (Wood), and you can’t help but pick up a few things watching him. He was a top, top class player. You also have to look, though, at the other types of hookers as well; the more dynamic fellows like (Keven) Mealamu from New Zealand and (Dimitri) Szarzewski from France. They are very dynamic in the tight, enclosed areas as well.

“That is something that is crucial as you step up in grade to international level. It is trying to get the balance right between the two. Then, of course, you have your basics, your line-out throwing and your scrummaging which are both majorly important. Ultimately, that is what you are judged on.”

Although disappointed not to get more game time in the Six Nations – in particular in the Triple Crown decider against Scotland – Cronin knows he has to be patient. All in its own good time. Besides, his progress to date has been astounding, especially given that the great John Hayes, who reached the 100 cap mark during the Six Nations, only made his international debut at the age of 26.

“I suppose, you are still building up the experience by being up there in the set-up,” says the 23-year-old, who notes the transition from club to international level and back to club level again was akin to a rollercoaster ride. No doubt, it must have been a real high to wear the Irish jersey against Wales in front of 75,000 or so people at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff.

For more, read this week's Connacht Tribune.