Touching Distance

Ireland went to the 2023 rugby world cup as the number one ranked team in the world. They were the reigning grand slam holders; and still they came home early.

Getting to the last four of the World Cup has become a national obsession. But is this the only measure of success? In Touching Distance, Brendan Fanning, one of the games most authoritative voices, shines a piercing light on every corner of the Irish rugby system, from grassroots to green jersey, illuminating the fine lines and thin margins between success and failure.

From the breakthrough years of Eddie OSullivan to men of massive influence like Joe Schmidt and Stuart Lancaster, with David Nucifora – the first tsar of Irish rugby in the pro era – through to Andy Farrell, the man in whom Irish fans hopes now rest, no stone is left unturned in Fannings revealing and absorbing narrative.

With the clock already counting down to the 2027 World Cup in Australia, where are Ireland on their quest for the top? And is glory finally within reach?

A hugely enjoyable book that gives a fascinating insight into whats been going on behind the curtain of Irish rugby over the last 20 years. SHANE HORGAN

Smart, incisive and packed with great stories. Most of what I know about rugby Ive learned from reading Brendan Fanning. PAUL HOWARD