Conor Murray Names His All-Time XV on INLIBER Ireland Rugby Social

Former Ireland scrum-half Conor Murray reveals his all-time best XV from his 15-year career, highlighting mentors and standout teammates across Ireland, Munster, Wales, and England.

Former Ireland scrum-half Conor Murray looks back on a stellar career as he selects his all-time best XV in INLIBER's Ireland Rugby Social. The Munster and Lions legend highlights teammates who shaped a memorable era in Irish rugby and beyond. Here is Murray’s nod to players who helped define his 15-year journey at the top level.

In a special edition of INLIBER's Ireland Rugby Social, Murray crafts a best XI from the men he shared the field with across Ireland, Munster, and the British and Irish Lions over a long, successful career at the highest level.

Murray, who earned 125 Ireland caps, made 207 appearances for Munster and played eight Tests for the Lions across 2013, 2017, and 2021 tours, explains his selections.

At scrum-half, Murray taps Mike Phillips from Wales, praising the 2013 Lions teammate as a major influence who sharpened his understanding of the game.

The XV also features three Welsh players and several Irish teammates, with English players included to balance the side and reflect the cross-border dynamics of the era.

Open-side flanker Sam Warburton earns his place for his performances and leadership, particularly during Lions tours in 2013 and 2017, guiding the team with composure and focus.

Warburton faced the challenge of winning over seasoned stars like Paul O'Connell and Brian O'Driscoll, Murray notes, adding that the captaincy came early and respect grew as he led by example.

The former Cardiff Blues captain retired from professional rugby in July 2018 after neck and back surgeries, but Murray stresses that Warburton’s leadership matured over time, emphasizing collaboration and voices from around the team.

“Leadership isn’t about one voice; it’s about empowering teammates who can contribute when needed,” Murray reflects, underscoring how the Lions’ 2013 captaincy set a standard for future tours.

As Murray reflects on his lineup, he highlights the value of mentorship, high-level performance, and unwavering dedication that helped shape his era in Irish rugby.

Key Takeaways

Leadership and mentorship defined Murray’s all-time XV, blending Irish stars with selected Welsh and English players.
Sam Warburton’s Lions captaincy illustrated the balance between youth and experience in a high-pressure role.
Murray’s picks reflect a career built on learning from peers like Mike Phillips and legends Paul O’Connell and Brian O’Driscoll.

Expert Commentary

A rugby analyst notes that Murray’s XV captures the era’s emphasis on leadership, adaptability, and mutual respect, underscoring how a player’s influence off the field often mirrors on-field decisions.

Summary

Conor Murray’s all-time XV offers fans a vivid snapshot of a generation that shaped Irish rugby and the Lions. The lineup underlines the importance of mentorship, leadership, and accumulated experience across domestic and international stages. Murray’s reflections provide insight into how a great scrum-half builds a team around him and leaves a lasting legacy.