Anna 
Ireland has strategically planned the farewell of rugby greats Conor Murray, Peter O’Mahony, and Cian Healy, ensuring they receive a fitting send-off in their final home appearance in Dublin this Saturday.
By announcing their retirements last week, Ireland has allowed the trio to be honored properly while minimizing distractions ahead of their crucial Six Nations showdown against France. The match, featuring the tournament’s top two teams, could determine the championship’s outcome.
Murray, O’Mahony, and Healy, who have played together for 13 years, are focused on finishing their careers on a high. Their ultimate goal is to lift a third consecutive Six Nations title next week in Rome.
“They’re not the type of players that would want it to ever be about them,” Ireland interim coach Simon Easterby said. “But we want to mark the occasion with the respect and performance it deserves, and they want to do the same.”
Healy echoed that sentiment.
“Just because I’ve decided to retire doesn’t mean I’m thinking about the past,” the 37-year-old prop said. “I’m here to do a job, and ideally, that job is two more wins and a trophy.”
Regardless of the outcome, Healy will retire as Ireland’s most decorated player. He holds the appearance records for both Ireland (136 caps) and Leinster (237 caps), with an impressive haul of five Six Nations titles, four European Cups, and seven United Rugby Championships.
His career nearly ended in 2015 due to a neck injury that left him unable to use his right hand. However, as feeling returned, he withdrew his retirement papers and returned to action within months, going on to play in three Rugby World Cups. A fourth appearance in 2023 was denied by a late injury.
Murray made his international debut in 2011, becoming Ireland’s starting scrumhalf by the end of that year’s World Cup. The 35-year-old was later recognized by World Rugby as the best scrumhalf of the decade (2010-2019). He played a key role for Ireland until 2021 and also went on three British and Irish Lions tours.
“I had the best days of my life in a green jersey,” Murray said.
O’Mahony, a natural leader, has captained Munster, Ireland, and the Lions. The 35-year-old flanker considered retiring last year but decided to play one final season. His recent full 80-minute performance against Wales proved he still had plenty to give.
“I loved the fact I got 80,” he said. “I enjoyed every minute of it. It was an unbelievably difficult test match, but I felt great after.”
The trio’s combined 371 caps include some of Ireland’s greatest moments—beating the All Blacks for the first time, historic series wins in New Zealand and Australia, and rare victories in South Africa.
“The team understands the impact these three have had on Irish rugby,” Easterby said. “They’ve become more than teammates—they’re close friends. The best way to honor them is to finish the tournament on a high.”
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