Peter McKenna is finally receiving recognition as a potential international, something that should be confirmed by the 44-man squad announced tomorrow. Educated at CBC Monkstown he made the Leinster Schools' team, but found himself in competition with Brian Begley and Jonathan Bell for the Ireland Schools' slot. A final trial was all he could manage. He made the national under-21 squad before spending a summer in New Zealand, playing for North Canterbury.

His ability was recognised by Leinster but despite a sensational try against Llanelli he quickly faded because of injury, work and study commitment and the form of Ciaran Clarke and Kevin Nowlan. Last summer he decided to accept a part-time contract with Leinster and devote more time to his rugby. The 26-year-old has been Leinster's outstanding back in terms of the consistency of performance, playing at fullback, wing or centre. His versatility could be a drawback, but in national terms should be considered at fullback.