Former Ireland scrum-half Conor Murray has hailed Mack Hansen for his “world-class ability” following a sensational first-half hat-trick in Ireland’s commanding 46-19 victory over Australia at the Aviva Stadium on Saturday.

Hansen, making his first start at full-back for Ireland, returned from a foot injury to score three tries inside the opening 30 minutes, helping Ireland secure a record-breaking win against the Wallabies. His performance was not only a testament to his physical prowess but also his understanding of the game and leadership on the pitch.

Hansen’s Impact On and Off the Field

Speaking on the Ireland Rugby Social podcast, Murray emphasized Hansen’s influence beyond just his athletic ability:

“He has been missed around the squad because he is such a personality. Whatever he brings to the group, he just makes people feel really good. He brings fun, a relaxed atmosphere, and world-class rugby ability.”

Murray highlighted the intelligence behind Hansen’s tries, noting that what appeared effortless was underpinned by strategic communication with teammates like Sam Prendergast and Bundee Aki:

“His tries look easy, especially the first two, but watching them back, he’s been talking to the players he needs to link with. That’s why Andy Farrell trusts him to start at full-back despite limited game time recently.”

Seamless Transition to Full-Back

While Hansen has earned 28 caps for Ireland on the wing, the absence of Hugo Keenan and Jamie Osborne necessitated his move to full-back. Murray noted that such a position change could be challenging for most players, but Hansen’s confidence and composure allowed for a smooth transition.

“He’s not arrogant; he’s ultra-confident in what he can do and how he contributes to the squad,” Murray said. “He leaned on experienced players like Hugo Keenan during the week and stayed open to guidance, which helped him excel.”

Murray praised Hansen’s athletic attributes, including his speed and strength, but emphasized that it’s his rugby intelligence that truly sets him apart:

“Where to be, positioning, understanding attack lines—Hansen plays relaxed, smart, and with class athleticism.”

Looking Ahead: The Springboks Test

Hansen’s performance against Australia is a significant boost for Ireland as they prepare for upcoming challenges, including a crucial match against South Africa (the Springboks). His versatility, confidence, and tactical awareness make him a pivotal figure for Andy Farrell’s squad moving forward.

With Hansen at full-back, Ireland can look to maintain their momentum and continue developing depth across the squad, ensuring they are competitive against the world’s top rugby nations.