John Hodnett

An openside flanker cut from the classic Munster mould, John Hodnett has become one of the province's most relentless back-row operators. Born on 10 January 1999, the Irish forward is renowned for his work at the breakdown, where his timing and low body height make him a constant threat over the ball. Hodnett pairs that turnover ability with strong, direct carrying and a high defensive work rate, the kind of all-action contribution that has made him a key figure in Munster's loose forwards. He was part of the Munster squad that won the United Rugby Championship in 2023, a landmark success for the province. Tenacious and durable, Hodnett offers both physicality in contact and disruption at the breakdown, qualities that have earned him recognition within the wider Irish set-up. As he continues to develop, he profiles as a defensive leader whose energy and aggression set the tone for those around him at Thomond Park.