Jack Carty quietly sat in the shadows while notching up points and appearances in the Guinness PRO14 ²⁰¹⁷⁄₁₈ season but it’s fair to say that he really found his rhythm in the season just gone.

More appearances, minutes and points accumulated; his form found himself nominated for a plethora of season awards. But it may very well be his Ireland call up and first cap against Italy in the six nations that tops all the fan and peer plaudits.

The Connacht native and academy product went on to add another two caps from his day out in Rome and added a few end of season awards to top an all-around stellar year. Carty was nominated for no less than 6 awards across his club, players union, and the Guinness PRO14.

Not so much rejuvenated as re-focused, the Guinness PRO14 Dream Team Out Half has excelled under new Connacht coach Andy Friend (Guinness PRO14 Coach of the Year Nominee). And noted addition to his season, three extra tries, notably his effort against Leinster. Nothing like crossing the whitewash to give a player confidence.

Buoyed by his season, Carty will be hoping to add more minutes in the green of Ireland over the summer and who knows, he could be a bolter for the Rugby World Cup. From the season he has just had, it would be very much warranted.

²⁰¹⁸⁄₁₉ SEASON HONOURS

Guinness PRO14 – Dream Team Out Half

Connacht – Try of the Season v Leinster Nomination

Connacht – Fans Player of the Year Nomination

Connacht – Players Player of the Year Nomination

Rugby Players Ireland – Players Player of the Year Nomination

Rugby Players Ireland – Supporters Player of the Year Winner