McCloskey's Phone "Never Buzzed So Much" After Viral Marcus Smith Tackle Goes Global

Stuart McCloskey's phone rarely stops buzzing these days, but nothing could have prepared the Ireland centre for the social media explosion that followed his chase-down tackle on England's Marcus Smith during the Six Nations.

"After my phone has never been buzzed as much in my whole life," McCloskey revealed on the Ireland Rugby Social podcast, describing the aftermath of his spectacular defensive effort that became one of the tournament's defining moments.

The 33-year-old Ulster star sprinted back to barrel Smith into touch during Ireland's record-breaking 42-21 victory at Twickenham, creating a moment that gained massive traction across social media platforms. "The chase down of Marcus went viral, you couldn't not see it for three or four days!" McCloskey laughed.

While the Smith tackle captured global attention, McCloskey actually preferred another highlight from his outstanding championship campaign. His quarterback-style offload to Rob Baloucoune for Ireland's third try against Italy demonstrated the creative elements of his game that have long been overshadowed by his physical presence.

"I probably liked the quarterback one to Rob more, it was a bit different," McCloskey explained. "The Marcus Smith one is there and will always be there as a nice moment to have, but those offloads are a bit different and showed my game."

McCloskey's breakthrough Six Nations campaign represented the culmination of years of patient waiting for his opportunity. Despite making his Ireland debut back in 2016, he had struggled to secure a prolonged run in the team, with established centres like Bundee Aki and Robbie Henshaw typically ahead of him in the pecking order.

This championship changed everything. With Aki suspended for the first three games and Henshaw battling injury troubles, McCloskey grasped his chance with remarkable consistency. He became one of only two players to start all five of Ireland's matches, alongside captain Caelan Doris, and led the team in multiple statistical categories.

His numbers tell the story of a player finally unleashed: 74 carries, eight offloads, six try assists, 20 defenders beaten, and 105 post-contact metres. These statistics reflect not just physical prowess but also the intelligent running lines and creative passing that have always been part of his repertoire.

"I didn't think it would take to 33 to get to five games in a row in the Six Nations," McCloskey admitted. "I never thought I was too far away from actually playing and, not being arrogant, but I backed my ability that I still thought I had it and was a pretty good player."

His relationship with Aki provides fascinating insight into the competitive dynamics within the Ireland squad. McCloskey candidly revealed that their relationship wasn't always smooth, particularly during their younger years when both were vying for the same position.

"In our younger years there was probably a bit more friction and we didn't get on that well," McCloskey explained. "But now, as time has gone on, we've spent so much time in the squad together we are quite friendly now."

That competitive edge has softened into mutual respect, though McCloskey acknowledges the natural jealousy that exists among elite athletes. "We're all as happy as we can be when the other is playing and going well. There's a bit of jealousy, I'm sure the lads would have loved to play this tournament."

Beyond individual achievements, McCloskey reflected on a Six Nations campaign that will be remembered as one of the most exciting in recent memory. Ireland came agonizingly close to the championship, ultimately falling short despite their Triple Crown success.

The post-match celebrations after beating England stand out as a particular highlight for McCloskey, who described the team sitting together, "properly cheering on England, living on every drop ball" as France and England battled in the final weekend.

"It was great but I was mentally drained watching," he recalled. "It will be a Six Nations they'll remember for a long time."

For McCloskey, this championship represents vindication of his belief in his abilities and the value of persistence in professional rugby.