Renowned rugby pundit George Hook believes Ireland are doomed heading into the 2015 Rugby World Cup this month. The outspoken sports critic outlined a litany of weaknesses in the 31 Irish squad which was finalised earlier today.
Speaking on BBC Northern Ireland radio, Hook said:
We have no chance of winning this World Cup. We have never even qualified for a semi-final before so let's get a bit of realism here. I think of all the teams heading into the tournament we are the least balanced.
The exclusion of Ulster winger Andrew Trimble sparked shock across Ireland today. Hook however, never considered Trimble to be in contention of a place in the squad due to the extensive nature of his injury.
Normally I would put him ahead of Zebo or Earls no doubt but it's not just his injury. He's been out for a long time.
A lack of ball carriers for the past five years, problems in the centre and facing down the France scrum are other fears Hook holds for the Irish squad. Will he be proven right?
Irish Team announcement was probably the most surprising squad announcement in the history of the #RWC
— George Hook (@ghook) September 1, 2015
Check out the full interview here:
