sports
February 16, 2026
Keith Wood: ‘After a Lions series, every player that went on tour is wrecked’
The former Ireland hooker on his rugby family, why Andy Farrell’s side need to rebuild and the physical toll of touring with the Lions
TL;DR
- Keith Wood's youngest son, Tom, is following in his father's and grandfather's footsteps, playing for Munster and Ireland U-20s.
- Wood reflects on the deaths of his father, brother Gordon, and mother, and how his children brought him 'beautiful life' after periods of grief.
- He emphasizes that he wants his sons to play rugby only if they enjoy it, aiming to alleviate pressure and allow them to have their own experiences.
- Wood believes Ireland is in a 'dip' due to player fatigue post-Lions tour and the need to integrate younger talent, comparing the team's form to a sine curve with peaks and troughs.
- He praises Italy's improved performance and highlights the positive impact of players like Stuart McCloskey, advocating for a more dynamic style of play.
- Wood admires French coach Fabien Galthié's unconventional thinking and believes France has the potential to win the World Cup.
- He shares a Muhammad Ali quote about growth and expresses a wish to have enjoyed his own career more, noting his son Tom's grounded approach.
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