Ulster centre Jude Postlethwaite says his involvement with the Ireland squad in recent weeks has been “a big learning experience” and has given him added incentive to get himself in a position to earn his first international cap.
Postlethwaite was called up to the Irish Six Nations panel by head coach Andy Farrell and despite not being involved on the field of play as yet, he says training with the squad and being part of the group has benefited his development.
The 23-year-old is one of five players who have been released from Ireland duty to their province for Saturday’s United Rugby Championship game against Ospreys.
“It’s been class, a big learning experience. I got the call from Andy Farrell three weeks ago and it was pretty surreal,” Postlethwaite told BBC Sport NI.
“The first week out in Portugal I learnt a lot and then the last few weeks have been brilliant.
“It’s just good to be down there involved and being around all the players. You’re learning off the best, players that I looked up to when I was younger.
“It gives me a bit of drive [to win a first cap] and obviously that’s where I want to be, get up to speed with all the details there, so that if I do get the opportunity I can take it.”
Postlethwaite’s fellow Ulster centre Stuart McCloskey has earned rave reviews for his performances in the green shirt in recent weeks as Farrell’s side secured victories over Italy and England after an opening defeat by France.
“Stuart has been incredible. I always knew he could put those types of performances in and I’m so happy for him.
“It’s down to the kind of person he is, so determined, and it’s great he’s getting that opportunity to show the world what he can do.”
Ulster have won seven of their 10 games to date in the URC and lie eight points adrift of leaders Glasgow Warriors, with a rearranged match against Edinburgh in hand.
Their opponents this weekend, Ospreys, sit ninth in the standings, 11 points worse off than Richie Murphy’s side.
“Every game is important for us and we’re ready for a big performance this weekend.”
“Any details I can bring back from Irish camp to help the lads can only help and I’m just so excited to get out there playing again.”