The recent "opening" of the great Irish national stadium of Croke Park to "foreign games" was given its most stirring manifestation by the emotional rendetion of the Irish rugby team's two national songs. This was all the more powerful following the respectful reception given by the Irish crowd to "God Save the Queen". The most potent and delicious blow for Irish national self respect and pride was then delivered by the national rugby team andthe only explosions heard were of joyful Irish throats celebrating a glorious victory over their great sporting rivals.
Soon, we will witness another great departure, as Croker welcomes the soccer players of Ireland. The Irish national soccer team may not match the performance or success of their rugby colleagues, but their matches at HQ are just as significant.
In the light of this great opening of the Irish identity definition, where nationalism in sport is no longer bitter and exclusive; it with great joy that I witnessed the ultimate "Garrison game" knocking old prejudice (literally) for six as the Irish cricket team humbled one of the elite of the world game, Pakistan with a sterling, fighting, proud display. It was perhaps, one of the greatest achievements of any Irish international sporting team. It is great to see Irish sport jettisoning the old tired rhetoric. It is wonderful that our spectacular passionate native games, can now co-exist with sports who despite their origins, are no less capable of instilling pride in Irish breasts.
See the cricket magic HERE
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