Baloucoune Back in the Mix: Ireland Wing Seizes Opportunity After Injury Struggles

For those surprised to see Rob Baloucoune on the teamsheet for last weekend’s victory over Italy, you weren’t alone. The 28-year-ancient is enjoying a brilliant season with Ulster, capped by a Six Nations man-of-the-match performance last Saturday.

Overcoming Adversity

Baloucoune’s journey back to prominence hasn’t been without its challenges. He admitted to being surprised to be back in contention for a spot in the Irish squad.

To be honest, yeah probably,

he said, reflecting on a period where his international future seemed uncertain.

The Enniskillen native made his Ireland debut in 2021, scoring a attempt against the USA, and added further caps against Argentina, South Africa, and Fiji. However, a series of injuries hampered his progress, limiting him to just two appearances for Ulster last season.

Return to Form with Ulster

This season, Baloucoune has rediscovered his form, registering six tries for Ulster and playing a key role in their United Rugby Championship campaign.

I got a good run of games this season, was playing well and the team were playing well which helped my ability to get back into the game and scoring tries always helps,

he explained.

His resurgence culminated in a standout performance against Italy, where he scored a crucial try in Ireland’s 20-13 win. The try, part of a multi-phase move, was praised by Ireland head coach Andy Farrell.

A Unique Connection with McCloskey

Baloucoune’s try against Italy was set up by a clever overhead pass from Ulster teammate Stuart McCloskey. The wing highlighted their established connection.

If you gaze back at a few tries, you’ll see with Ulster that I’ve received a lot of passes from him like that, a basketball loop or an NFL pass,

he said. It’s something he’s good at and something I look for.

Evolving Game

Baloucoune acknowledges a shift in his approach to the game, driven by coaching at Ulster.

Back in the last time I was playing, I was probably just kind of staying out on the wing. Mark Sexton came into Ulster and he’s wanted more from the wingers. I’m trying to get off my wing more and get involved in plays and get my hands on the ball.

Physical and Mental Resilience

The Ireland wing believes he is now at his physical peak.

I’ve gone through different stages of bulking and then not enjoying it and dropping a bit of weight. I had a big pre-season with Ulster, did a lot of stuff with the Irish physio, trying to get my hamstrings sorted and doing a lot of sprint work and stuff like that. That’s kind of made me a bit more robust and I’m probably the fittest that I’ve been in my whole life.

Looking Ahead to Twickenham

Baloucoune is now focused on the upcoming match against England at Twickenham.

It’s always something you can get up for. They’ll be hurting, so we know what type of game that’s going to be. It’s going to be physical and we know what we have to bring.

Watch England v Ireland in the Six Nations from 1pm on RTÉ2 and RTÉ Player. Follow a live blog on the RTÉ News App and on rte.ie/sport. Listen to commentary on Saturday Sport on RTÉ Radio 1

Watch France v Italy in the Six Nations on Sunday from 2.30pm on RTÉ2 and RTÉ Player