Billy Burns ready to work his way to Ireland side

Ulster fly-half Billy Burns believes consistent performances will be key to get back into the Ireland squad.

Burns last played for Ireland in the summer Test series against Japan in 2021 but with Johnny Sexton retiring from the game, he would be fancying his chances with strong performances for his club.

The 29-year-old played 75 minutes in Ulster's recently concluded New Year's game against Leinster and look impressive especially in the opening half as his side edged away with a 22-21 victory.

When asked whether there was any contact from the Ireland team management on his possible comeback, Burns replied: “No, and it’s my fault that I haven’t warranted a phone call, to be honest with you,” he says.

“Like, I’m a realist, I haven’t been playing well enough the last couple of years, not from lack of trying. I do feel like I’m hopefully starting to get back to the level where I was and I feel the style of rugby that we’re playing now will really suit me.

“It’s one good game,” he adds. “It doesn’t make me Ireland’s future number 10. I’ve got to back it up week on week in big games. But again, it’s not for me [to say], I’ll just keep my head down and keep working and see what happens. Sorry to be boring.”

In the World Cup it was Munster's Jack Crowley and Leinster's Ross Byrne, who joined Sexton as the playmakers.

“It does feel like a long time,” he added. “Like, I’m desperate to be back. I loved watching the World Cup.”