On the back of this year’s Six Nations, it seems as though Andy Farrell has identified some potentially key contributors for Ireland moving forward.

Stuart McCloskey was a revelation at centre, meaning he should be in the team for the foreseeable future. Jack Crowley also looks to have nailed down the ‘ten’ jersey with his displays over the latter half of the championship.

As for the wing positions, Ireland now have two more genuine options to start in Tommy O’Brien and Robert Baloucoune. Those two impressed with their try-scoring ability throughout the championship.

Of course, their emergence also leaves question marks over the places of some other squad members.

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Jackman has questions over Mack Hansen Ireland role

Mack Hansen played no role in Ireland’s Six Nations campaign, with the Connacht star ruled out due to the foot injury he suffered earlier this season.

The winger has been a key part of the team under Andy Farrell in recent seasons, although his place in the side could be under pressure moving forward due to the emergence of Robert Baloucone on the test stage.

Speaking on the RTÉ Rugby Podcast, Bernard Jackman suggested that Hansen has been overtaken for regular spot on the right wing when he does eventually return to the test stage.

This is harsh on Mack and Mack will probably end up playing somewhere, but I think Baloucoune (will start). Every team needs an out and out wheels man with pace.

He has had a very good tournament. He’s not just pace, his power and working off the ball has been excellent. Aerial ability has been top class and we know how important that is.

It’s really hard. The only reason I’m picking out Mack here is because Mack plays right wing and [Baloucoune] plays right wing. I’m not saying Mack couldn’t potentially play left wing or fullback, we know he’s very good there.

But I think Baloucoune is now the one in the starting team regardless.

Mack Hansen is a versatile operator, meaning he could find another spot in the starting XV when he does come back from injury. In saying that, it seems highly likely that Robert Baloucone will continue in the ’14’ jersey as long he maintains his current level of performance.

In any case, having that extra bit of competition for places in the Ireland team will be a welcome development for Andy Farrell and his coaching staff.

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