Zebo backs Hanrahan to cover Crowley's long injury absence but urges consistency

JJ Hanrahan will be crucial to Munster’s season after Ireland fly-half Jack Crowley was ruled out until the New Year with a rare blood vessel issue in his lower limb, according to former team-mate Simon Zebo. Hanrahan, 34, is also facing a race to be fit for Munster’s United Rugby Championship opener against Glasgow Warriors after suffering a head knock in pre-season.

Zebo, speaking about the veteran fly-half who has played in France, England and Wales across a well-travelled career, was candid in his assessment. He acknowledged that Hanrahan had struggled for consistency last season as Crowley’s rise limited his opportunities, but insisted the experience he brings remains genuinely valuable.

“It’s just been fewer games we’ve seen him with those opportunities of late, with the rise of Jack,” Zebo said. “He found it difficult last season but that doesn’t say his ceiling is any lower — it was just, last year, he wasn’t very consistent if I’m honest.”

Despite that caveat, Zebo was emphatic that Hanrahan’s broader contribution to the squad goes beyond what he produces on the pitch. The 34-year-old has been signed by Munster three times across his career, a distinction Zebo sees as a mark of the province’s regard for him.

“Not many players get signed three times,” Zebo noted. “He was always very well liked in Munster and always gave all he had throughout the years. He’s been an invaluable member of any squad.”

Zebo highlighted Hanrahan’s ability to mentor younger players such as Tom Wood and Charlie O’Shea as particularly important during Crowley’s extended absence, pointing to the fly-half’s experience across top-level leagues as a resource the squad can draw on.

“I still think he’ll be invaluable for Munster now this season. And not just his performances, which will be very much needed, but also the experience he passes on to those younger players that are coming through,” Zebo said.

“He does enjoy the big day out. He has a really, really high skill set and, when he’s really up for a game, he gets stuck in as well. Maybe he can get some good consistency.”

With Crowley’s blood vessel issue representing an unusual and serious setback for the Ireland international, Munster’s ability to navigate the first half of the URC season will depend heavily on how quickly Hanrahan can find his best form.