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The Irish Sun

Ireland and Lions star reveals hidden talent as he opens up about his passion and family history

IRELAND star James Ryan has revealed a hidden talent that may serve him well after his playing days come to an end. The Leinster lock was recently named in the Lions squad by Andy Farrell for this summer's tour of Australia. Advertisement 2 Ireland star James Ryan spoke about his passion before revealing his family's deep history 2 James Ryan is announced by Board Chairman Ieuan Evans during the British & Irish Lions Squad and Captain announcement for the 2025 Tour of Australia The 28-year-old Ryan revealed that he has a huge passion for Irish history, due to family links. He said: "I've always been very interested in history and politics, yeah. "Could it be a life after rugby... I highly doubt it yet - never say never - but..." Advertisement read more on rugby Ryan went on to add that five members of his family took part in nationalistic activities during Ireland's fight for independence. James Ryan's family history is deeply woven into the fabric of Ireland's revolutionary and political past, incredibly stretching far beyond the rugby pitch. His great-grandfather, Dr James Ryan, played a prominent role in Ireland's struggle last century. Ryan's family connections don't stop there. His great-grandmother, Mairin Cregan, was a writer and a committed member of Cumann na mBan, the women's auxiliary of the Irish Volunteers. Advertisement Most read in Rugby Union The broader Ryan family also included revolutionary women such as Nell Ryan, who was arrested and went on hunger strike for anti-Treaty activities. James also revealed that he was asked to do a presentation to Ireland players on the history of 'Ireland's Call'. 'That time of year again' - Peter O'Mahony's captivating garden update includes hilarious tip for parents He added: "The difference between Ireland's Call and Amhrán na bhFiann is that Ireland's Call was intended to be inclusive for the whole island. "Particularly guys from the North - they come from different backgrounds, whether that's Unionist, Nationalist, and so on... Ireland's Call is meant to represent all of them. Advertisement "So we did a little bit on that, and I think off the back of that, people probably appreciated the song a little bit more."