Brian Gleeson

Size, dynamism and an appetite for collisions have marked Brian Gleeson out as one of the more promising young forwards to emerge from Munster's pathway in recent years. Born in early 2004, the Ireland-qualified flanker has drawn attention for his ball-carrying and a defensive work rate that belies his relative inexperience. Gleeson brings genuine physical presence to the back row, traits that let him make ground in contact and contribute strongly at the breakdown. He has featured for Ireland at age-grade level, gaining valuable exposure to international rugby within the country's underage setup. Inside the Munster squad he is viewed as a player on an upward trajectory, adding ballast and energy to the forward pack while continuing to refine the detail of his game. Much of his early development has centred on adapting his junior physicality to the demands of the professional game and building the consistency that senior selection rewards. With his physical profile and competitive edge, Gleeson is regarded as one to watch as he presses for a more established role at senior level.