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Keith Earls earns momentous 100th Irish cap
Munster and Ireland rugby player, Keith Earls is set to earn his 100th cap this weekend for Ireland as they take on England in a friendly ahead of the World Cup this September.
Mayor of the City and County of Limerick, Cllr Gerald Mitchell leads congratulations for Keith Earls on his momentous 100th Irish cap

The Limerick rugby player, Keith Earls, who made his Ireland debut against Canada in November 2008, is set to become the ninth Ireland player to reach the landmark of 100 international caps, following in the footsteps of Brian O’Driscoll (133), Ronan O’Gara (128), Cian Healy (124), Rory Best (124), Johnny Sexton (113), Paul O’Connell (108), John Hayes (105) and Conor Murray (105).
Speaking about the opportunity, Keith Earls said he is “trying not to think about it” and that “it would be a massive honour”.
“I’m trying not to think about it, but talking to Andy if it does happen he’s telling me it’s not just another cap. You can’t have a normal week, because it’s not a normal week,” he said.
He added, “It would be a massive honour, I think it would be a big relief because I’d been stuck on 98 for nearly 2 years – since the New Zealand Tour – and getting one against Italy, and yeah, it’ll be a bit of relief.”
The Mayor of the City and County of Limerick, Cllr Gerald Mitchell, has today extended his warmest congratulations to Earls who ahead of this weekend’s friendly fixture, where he can win his 100th cap for the Irish rugby team.
Keith has been included by Ireland Head Coach Andy Farrell in the match day squad for Saturday’s Bank of Ireland Nations Series clash against England at the Aviva Stadium
The Mayor of the City and County of Limerick, Cllr Gerald Mitchell stated: “Keith’s journey to a century of Irish caps encapsulates the essence of sportsmanship, teamwork and perseverance. He is an inspiration to aspiring athletes throughout Limerick and beyond. This remarkable milestone is a testament to Keith’s dedication, skill, and unwavering commitment to the sport.”
Mayor Mitchell noted that the achievement not only showcases Keith’s remarkable athleticism but also exemplifies the immense pride that Limerick takes in its sporting heritage.
“Keith is an exemplary ambassador for Limerick and this accomplishment serves as an inspiration to the younger generation, demonstrating that with dedication and hard work, one can achieve greatness on the global stage.”
As Keith Earls continues to make waves in the world of rugby, the Mayor reaffirms his pride in Limerick’s rich rugby heritage and extends his heartfelt congratulations to Keith and his family on this momentous occasion.
“I would encourage the entire sporting community to join in celebrating Keith’s achievement and to look forward to his continued success in the years to come. Limerick players have provided the Irish team with a different kind of energy for generations and Keith’s achievement this weekend reaffirms once again that Limerick is the sporting capital of Ireland,” the Mayor said.