Looking at the Irish squad, there is no Pat Richards... this come as a shock to any of you Wigan fans?

Richards wasn't in the Ireland squad last season, so even if he hadn't been injured he still wouldn't have played. I imagine he uses the time off to go back to Australia with his family.

There was something in the League express a few weeks ago about how he'd made himself unavailable. I think he wanted a rest but hopes to turn out again for them in the future.

Can't see him turning out for them outside of World Cups.

He played in the European Cup a few years ago, he probably would have played last year too if he hadn't been injured. I can understand wanting a rest this season, especially as Ireland aren't really playing any important fixtures, just a couple of friendlies against Samoa, Scotland and France. A couple of the senior French players are being rested too and will probably only turn out against England.

Agree with above that he has not re-captured last years form (with obvious exceptions) because of the long lay off. Fully rested off season and a good pre season is what is needed for him to get back to his all conquering superman best!