Marcus Horan lifts his Munster and Ireland team-mate Paul O'Connell during lineout practice.

Ireland coach Eddie O'Sullivan surveys the scene at St. Gerard's.

Ireland captain Brian O'Driscoll works on his attacking skills ahead of his return for Leinster and November's Test matches against South Africa, Australia and the Pacific Islands.

Eddie O'Sullivan talks tactics with his assistant coach Niall O'Donovan.

Leinster and Ireland winger Denis Hickie seems camera shy, or in desperate need of help with his tackle padding.

Ulster and Ireland 'A' prop Tom Court, a newcomer to the senior squad set-up, gets ready to throw a pass at training. Court, who hails from Brisbane, was Australian University shot put champion for three years running before he took up rugby. His family orginates from County Mayo.

Ulster and Ireland flanker Neil Best claims the ball during an attacking drill.

**All photos by Billy Stickland of Inpho Photography**

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