Dream come true for Chris

The 25-year-old Ulster back row star has been called up by coach Declan Kidney for this Summer Tour match in Brisbane.

"Since I was a youngster it was something I dreamed of. It has been an exciting week and I cannot wait to get on the pitch and throw myself into the game," said Chris.

"You always fantasise about it when you are young and watching the teams, so it is definitely a big dream come true and it means a lot to myself and my family back home."

His selection is no big surprise to those who know him and is reward for all his hard work and dedication down the years since he first lifted a rugby ball.

A past pupil of Wallace High School, his former rugby teacher Neil Hinds is delighted at the news. "Chris was a very skilful and energetic player at school and from the early age of 12 he led teams by example and consistently gave of his best," said Neil.

"His leadership qualities were excellent and this has continued with Ulster and Irish representative teams. His captaincy of Ulster last season was outstanding and his selection for Ireland versus Australia is just reward for his commitment and professionalism. All at The Wallace High School wish him well for Saturday."

Principal Mrs Deborah O'Hare was also thrilled at the news: "The community of The Wallace High School is rightly proud of former pupil Chris, and pleased for him and his family.

"He is a remarkable, talented and modest young man, a real inspiration to our young people and a wonderful ambassador for both his former school and the sport of rugby on the international stage."

During his time at the school Chris toured Australia in the summer of 2002, he helped guide the team to the final of the Schools' Cup in 2003 and followed in the footsteps of his brother who captained the 1st XV at Wallace. Rugby is certainly in the 'Henry blood' as younger brother Daniel is a key member of the current team which reached the Schools' Cup semi final last season.

The big moment arrives at 11.05am on Saturday morning (8.05pm in Australia) when Chris and Ireland enter the Suncorp Stadium for what will be another fierce battle with the Wallabies.