'I was like a sporting junkie, hooked on the adrenaline, the pursuit of perfection' Shane Byrne won 41 caps for Ireland, played four tests for the British and Irish Lions and is fondly remembered as one of the best hookers of his era. Yet his career is touched with sadness and regret. By Garry Doyle Saturday 20 Feb 2021, 10:00 AM Feb 20th 2021, 10:00 AM 42,408 Views 16 Comments Shane Byrne on the charge against France. Image: INPHO Image: INPHO SHANE BYRNE FELT like a tourist in his own town. March 2003. Ireland and England were going for a Grand Slam and a quarter of a million people were milling around Dublin’s streets sniffing out a ticket.