'They're 15 blokes, just like us' - Connacht have no fear of Leinster, says Bealham

He's reluctant to admit he's playing the best rugby of his career, but Finlay Bealham will concede he's never enjoyed the game more than he is now.

The 30-year-old has long been a cult hero for Connacht fans, but in the last two seasons he's started catching the eye of the wider Irish rugby audience a bit more, not least for his instantly recognisable gameday braids in his hair.

His rugby is also standing out, and Ireland head coach Andy Farrell is noticing. Having made his Ireland debut in 2016, the versatile prop has earned 23 Test caps, with 14 of those coming in the last 18 months.

Andrew Porter's switch across the scrum has also opened the door for him at tighthead, and he's grasped the opportunity with both hands, playing all five games in this year's Six Nations, and featuring in 10 of Ireland's last 11 matches.

The 2022 championship also gave way to his finest moment in an Ireland shirt as he scored the the fourth try in their bonus-point win away to England at Twickenham, following which he had an emotional reunion with his parents, who he was seeing for the first time since before the start of the Covid-19 pandemic.

When pushed on what's led to him enjoying the game so much, he admits it's a combination of factors.

"I was going to say I'm another year older and another year wiser, but I don't know about the wiser bit," he laughs.

"I just really enjoy the environment that Friendy (Andy Friend) and the coaches have created and I just relish how I can be myself.

"One of the best bits of advice I've got is to just be yourself and relish it. It's what I try to do day-in and day-out, and try and bring that energy to the lads and enjoy the work.

"I've been really fortunate to be involved with Ireland in the last 18 months, and