Ryan Baird shows test credentials against Northampton

Leinster didn't have it all their own way against Northampton Saints on Saturday with many predicting a walkover for Leo Cullen's men but the Saints managed to keep Leinster to a relatively respectable 35-19 scoreline.

While Leinster weren't quite as brutally clinical as many thought they would be, one man certainly stood out in the Blue jersey.

Ryan Baird was a man on a mission at the RDS producing an excellent man of the match performance.

The 21-year-old has enjoyed a fine start to his career which has seen him earn a call up to the Ireland squad. A test debut in 2020 was curtailed by an injury which ruled him out of the remainder of the Six Nations in November but Saturday's game against Northampton gave Irish fans a glimpse into what the future may hold for the Green jersey.

Baird started in the second row with James Ryan with the pair combining wonderfully throughout the game. Ryan piled into rucks for most of the game while Baird lightened the ball-carrying load for Ryan as he made the joint-most carries in the game, 16.

The 21-year-old 6ft6 second-rower was extremely effective with ball in hand making over 6 running metres while he showed off his athleticism as he managed to beat 6 defenders and complete two offloads.

Baird was excellent in all facets of the game providing pressure on the Saints lineout while making all of his attempted 8 tackles. It now looks more of when Baird will make his test debut rather than if.