Healy, a player with over 124 caps for his country, will stand as one of Ireland's senior figures during the forthcoming tournament in France. When questioned about retirement, he conveyed his desire to persist with both Leinster and Ireland into the 2023/24 season. "Ideally so, yeah," he responded during an interview at Ireland's training base in Portugal.
Healy stated on the IRFU website, "The body’s holding up well. Occasionally, it might be sore on a Sunday, but it's holding up alright."
Despite experiencing multiple injuries, a common occurrence for rugby players, Healy opted for positivity rather than panic. "My initial reaction was to panic." He continued, "However, I decided to move past it and contemplate whether to conclude my journey or contribute further. Could I exert a positive influence?"
Healy concluded, "I resolved to be a positive influence, striving to present the best version of myself to the team. This mindset has always been my objective."
64' | TRY! Cian Healy is off the bench and on the scoresheet! 🟢#TeamOfUs
— Irish Rugby (@IrishRugby) August 5, 2023
"I aim not to enter a building with a sense of fatigue. Instead, I endeavour to bring enthusiasm, inject some fun, and possess the right energy for pitch sessions. I avoid being the person who burdens others with thoughts of 'This day is dragging on. From that point forward, my outlook has been entirely positive," he noted.
Reflecting on his unique position, Healy expressed, "I comprehend the significance. This isn't an ordinary job, nor is it one readily obtained. When dissected, the realisation dawns that playing for one's country is an immense privilege."
Healy's recent appearance against Italy allowed him to equal Rory Best's record of 123 caps. He stands behind only Ronan O'Gara (128) and Brian O'Driscoll (133) on the all-time list of Ireland caps.
When asked about his sentiments regarding achieving such a remarkable number of appearances for Ireland, Healy humbly responded, "It's a pleasant achievement, but I don't obsessively tally my caps." He added, "It's gratifying to have maintained a presence for this duration and to have seized numerous opportunities wearing the green jersey."
Ireland's upcoming fixture is against England on August 19.
