Ulster back row James McNabney has received his first call-up to the senior Ireland squad for the November Nations Championship fixtures, marking a significant milestone in an unconventional journey to international rugby.
From farm and horses to rugby
The 23-year-old grew up on a farm near Ballymena and did not watch much rugby as a child. Instead, he competed in equestrian events, representing Northern Ireland and Great Britain until the age of 16. A provincial talent coach, Michael Black, gave him an ultimatum: add bulk for rugby or stay lean for horse riding. McNabney chose rugby, a decision that has led him to the brink of a Test debut.
Under-20 success and ACL setback
McNabney was part of Ireland Under-20 teams that won Grand Slams in the Six Nations in 2022 and 2023. He was included as a training panellist for the 2025 Six Nations and was set to join the summer squad for matches against Japan and Georgia, but an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury ruled him out for a year. He returned to action for Ulster in pre-season this summer.
Highly rated by Farrell
Ireland head coach Andy Farrell has described the 6ft 5in, nearly 19-stone back row as "some specimen of a man." His recall to the national panel at the first opportunity after his recovery underscores how highly the coaching group rates him.
Debut possible in November
McNabney could make his Ireland debut in the Nations Championship matches against Argentina, Fiji, South Africa, or during the finals weekend in London at the end of November. He says he is delighted with the opportunity but has no expectation of being capped, focusing instead on learning and preparing the team.
