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Leinster scrumhalf Nick McCarthy has confirmed that he will move to Munster next season. Born in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the 23-year-old was first choice No9 for two seasons with Ireland u20 but remains eligible for the USA having not yet played for Ireland at senior level.
Don’t expect McCarthy to opt for the red, white, and blue any time soon, however. He remains in the frame for Ireland selection and the move to Munster will see him understudy British & Irish Lions star Conor Murray. IRFU contracts also stipulate that players must remain eligible for Ireland with spots for non-Irish qualified players at the regions limited.
Among his competition at Leinster and Ireland is Canadian-born Luke McGrath, who ironically made his debut against Canada at the Aviva Stadium in November 2016. Finding high-level eligible players willing to commit to international rugby has proved difficult for the North American teams.
Munster have US-eligible prop Jeremy Loughman currently on their roster. The 23-year-old also represented Ireland at u20 level but remains eligible for the Eagles having been born in Reno, Nevada. He has yet to make a senior appearance for Munster this season.
