The prospect of Bob Casey appearing in an Ireland jersey again appear as remote as ever following the secondrow's decision to commit his long-term future to London Irish.
Despite some hugely impressive performances in the English Premiership, Casey has received little recognition from the Irish selectors which many have put down to the perceived bias towards home-based players.
Casey won the last of his five caps in 2000 and London Irish boss Brian Smith fails to understand why he has not featured more in the Ireland set-up.
Smith said: "Bob is a terrific asset to the club both on and off the field. He plays his heart out week in, week out and is a wonderful leader in the changing room. Bob is still a dominant force in the Guinness Premiership and the Heineken Cup and it's bewildering that he's not played more for Ireland."
Casey joined the Exiles in 2002 and has helped turn London Irish into the most effective lineout side in England. He was appointed club captain at the start of the season and has led his team to the quarter-finals of the Heineken Cup for the first time in their history.
Casey, now committed to the club until 2012, said: "I feel we have the squad, management and supporters now to become a top Guinness Premiership and Heineken Cup side. I'm really looking forward to us competing for and winning some silverware."
