Joe Schmidt is the best coach in the world, claims Ireland hooker Sean Cronin

(Photo: Getty Images)
By Adam Ellis
Ireland hooker Sean Cronin has credited coach Joe Schmidt for placing a third ever Six Nations Grand Slam within their grasp.
Victory over England at Twickenham would seal Ireland’s first clean sweep in the Six Nations since 2009 and the Leinster front row says it would be just reward for a coach who he has won glory with for both club and country.
“He’s the best coach in the world, his results speak for themselves; three Championships in five years is incredible,” said Cronin. “He’s top quality, and he has great support staff behind him too.
“I’ve been involved with Joe for a long time, both at Leinster and Ireland, and when you do make a mistake during a game you’re already thinking about the review on Monday.
“There’s not many coaches who can put that kind of motivational fear into you.
“Chances to pull off a Grand Slam are few and far between. I’ve never been involved in a Grand Slam decider before.
“Guys are well aware these opportunities don’t come around very often. We can’t let an opportunity like this slip by.”
History is stacked in England’s favour when welcoming Ireland to Twickenham in the Six Nations, being defeated 17 times in 65 meetings.
However, Ireland’s boldness in attack has seen them amass 49 more points than England in this year’s tournament.