Ever wonder what it's like to be on the receiving end of envy and, yes, even hatred? Leinster's Dan Sheehan knows. When your team can seamlessly swap an All Black like Jordie Barrett for another, Rieko Ioane, you're bound to stir up some feelings. It's easy to see how other teams might feel a twinge of jealousy, which can quickly morph into something more intense.
This isn't just about talent; it's about resources. Leinster, a club side, has the financial backing to attract top-tier talent. They've assembled a squad of Irish international players, bolstered by a South African World Cup winner, RG Snyman, and the aforementioned Ioane. This kind of star power is bound to polarize opinions.
But here's where it gets controversial: Does success breed resentment? Sheehan, the unflappable hooker, isn't fazed by the external noise. He embraces the 'hatred,' seeing it as fuel for the team's fire.
"I don’t care what people think, or about the outside noise," says Sheehan. "If everyone loved us it would be kind of weird. There is that sort of hatred towards us.”
This shared experience of being the 'villain' provides a unique kind of motivation, especially after Leinster's somewhat shaky start in the United Rugby Championship.
Sheehan's journey has been a whirlwind, from Leinster to the British and Irish Lions, then to Ireland, and back to Leinster. This cycle, he says, has brought a refreshing sense of renewal and a renewed energy for the challenges ahead.
"I love coming in here now, in a big week, backs against the wall, needing to prove a point," he says. "There’s 23 other lads raring to go as well, to prove a point and stake a claim for our season."
And this is the part most people miss: Sheehan isn't dwelling on past disappointments. He's focused on the present and the future.
He dismisses the idea that Leinster is desperate for a Champions Cup win, despite losing three consecutive finals. Instead, he highlights the positive aspects of their performance and the opportunities they've created.
"We’ve got another chance this year with the new group, and we’ve just got to be excited about it, to go and attack it. So, I wouldn’t say it’s weighs on us. Like, I don’t go into this week now thinking, ‘oh God, I hope it goes well’. I’ll just say, ‘rip into Harlequins, see what happens’. Do everything you can, because it’s important, these seedings in group stages ... make sure we place ourselves in a nice position going into the spring. I don’t see it as a negative that we’ve lost a few finals now. It more just adds to the group.”
Their upcoming match against Harlequins presents a fresh challenge. While Harlequins haven't had a stellar start to the season, they are a team to be reckoned with, capable of dazzling plays.
Sheehan acknowledges Harlequins' strengths, particularly their attacking prowess and physicality. He emphasizes the importance of Leinster focusing on their own game, especially their discipline, which has been an area of concern.
The game is evolving, and so are the rules. The offside rule, in particular, has become a point of contention. But for Sheehan, it's all just background noise.
He's ready to put in the work and focus on the game ahead. "I’m looking forward to just getting a bit of rugby under the belt and getting stuck into things," he says. "New competition, new energy around the group. Get on with it.”
What do you think? Is it fair to resent a team's success, or is it simply a sign of their dominance? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
