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Rugby

13th Mar 2016

It’s official: CJ Stander is the most popular Irish import since Saint Patrick

Conan Doherty

If Ireland will take one thing from the 2016 Six Nations, it’s CJ Stander.

No third successive title, not even any of the old glorious defeats. Just a flat campaign lit up by just one win so far, against the lowly Italians at that.

But, throughout, one man has stolen our hearts. One man has captivated the nation and worked his way into the Irish embrace. Step forward, CJ Stander.

CJ Stander with Sergio Parisse 12/3/2016

Ireland’s first win since October was fitted with the South African’s first try for his new country. If there was ever any doubt before Saturday, CJ Stander is now a fully-fledged Irish man.

And we couldn’t be more proud.

https://twitter.com/carol_hennessy/status/708656585833373696

CJ Stander’s first Irish try.

CJ Stander, the proud, patriotic Irish man.

CJ Stander, the national holiday.

https://twitter.com/AoifMcG/status/708656236489789440

CJ Stander, the earthquake.

Seemingly.

CJ Stander, the cross-community officer.

CJ Stander, the turning-bellies-to-mush guy.

https://twitter.com/unfunfionn/status/708678786418655232

CJ Stander, the record-breaker.

49 man of the matches in 4 international appearances.

https://twitter.com/FionnKeane/status/708675187718426624

CJ Stander, the turncoat.

Wait, piss off. He loves Ireland more than you.

CJ Stander, the pie.

https://twitter.com/OrlaRea_/status/708661082542501889

CJ Stander, the over-the-top’s favourite.

CJ Stander, the heart-throb.

CJ Stander, the monster.

https://twitter.com/jackdonnellly/status/708656056784822272

CJ Stander, the beast.

CJ Stander, the machine.

CJ Stander, the man.

https://twitter.com/beahan_taidgh/status/708656850338709504

CJ Stander, we love you.

https://twitter.com/StevieBuckley/status/708655864249503745

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