Shane Byrne and the Snuffleupagus

One of these things is just like the other. . . He's an inoffensive, furry chap with far more hair than is strictly necessary, but he's also an integral part of the Irish rugby squad. Hooker Shane Byrne has become a firm favourite among rugger-huggers since making his debut against Romania in 2001. Not only does he resemble Sesame Street's cuddlesome Snuffleupagus, best friend to Big Bird, but he's not half bad at hoovering up points for the national team