Stander is confident that Ireland will eventually secure a Rugby World Cup victory. According to the former Ireland player, this outcome is inevitable due to the abundant talent emerging from the country’s youth programs.
Ireland had high hopes of breaking their quarter-final curse this year but suffered a 24-28 defeat to New Zealand, repeating history. Stander, well-known in Munster, firmly believes that the younger players who experienced this year’s heartbreak will ultimately become stronger. He pointed to Munster’s United Rugby Championship victory this year as evidence, where many of Ireland’s emerging talents, such as Craig Casey and Jack Crowley, were key contributors.
Stander expressed his optimism, stating, “Over time, Ireland is destined to reach the semi-finals and finals in future World Cups. They possess the necessary talent for it.” He also emphasized that as new player cycles begin and older ones phase out, the memories of past disappointments will fade, and young, hungry players will step up.
Drawing parallels with Munster’s recent success, he noted that they had a new generation of players who were unburdened by a history of struggle and subsequently achieved victory.
Stander’s outlook is positive, and he believes that Ireland’s overall rugby infrastructure is exceptional.
However, he acknowledged the gap left by the retirement of former captain Johnny Sexton, a player of immense significance. Stander believes that while it won’t be an instant replacement, Ireland has emerging talents like Peter O’Mahony, James Ryan, Caelan Doris, Josh van der Flier, and Bundee Aki, who will collectively step up and ensure that Ireland doesn’t feel Johnny’s absence too keenly.
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