Jude Postlethwaite's Call-Up to Ireland Squad
Ulster centre Jude Postlethwaite has described his recent involvement with the Ireland rugby squad as "a big learning experience," providing him with additional motivation to position himself for his first international cap.
Postlethwaite earned a call-up to the Irish Six Nations panel by head coach Andy Farrell. Although he has yet to make an appearance on the field, training alongside the squad and being part of the team environment has contributed positively to his development.
The 23-year-old is among five players released from Ireland duty to return to their provinces ahead of Saturday's United Rugby Championship (URC) fixture against the Ospreys.
"It's been class, a big learning experience. I got the call from Andy Farrell three weeks ago and it was pretty surreal," Postlethwaite told NI.
"The first week out in Portugal I learnt a lot and then the last few weeks have been brilliant.
"It's just good to be down there involved and being around all the players. You're learning off the best, players that I looked up to when I was younger.
"It gives me a bit of drive [to win a first cap] and obviously that's where I want to be, get up to speed with all the details there, so that if I do get the opportunity I can take it."
Stuart McCloskey's Impact and Ulster's URC Campaign
Postlethwaite also praised his Ulster teammate Stuart McCloskey, who has received widespread acclaim for his performances in the Ireland team during recent weeks. Farrell's side secured victories over Italy and England following an opening defeat against France.
"Stuart has been incredible. I always knew he could put those types of performances in and I'm so happy for him.
"It's down to the kind of person he is, so determined, and it's great he's getting that opportunity to show the world what he can do."
Ulster have won seven of their 10 games so far in the URC and currently sit eight points behind league leaders Glasgow Warriors, with a rescheduled match against Edinburgh still to be played.
Their upcoming opponents, the Ospreys, are positioned ninth in the standings, trailing Richie Murphy's side by 11 points.
"Every game is important for us and we're ready for a big performance this weekend."
"Any details I can bring back from Irish camp to help the lads can only help and I'm just so excited to get out there playing again."
