January 30, 2013 at 5:54 p.m.
Byrne brings mullet, fierce style to Rugby Classic
The 36-year-old, who was capped 42 times for Ireland and still plays semi-professional rugby, is relishing the chance to play in his first Classic.
He said: "By the looks of the squads going out there it is going to be a very competitive tournament.
"I know the (Lions) management are very hungry to win it."
Byrne said he may have lost a yard in pace but his desire to win was still intact. "We are a bit seasoned at this stage but when it comes to it we all like to win, you don't lose that."
He added that he was looking forward to renewing rivalries with some former foes.
"We've all played against each other quite a few times - I better not pick anyone out or they'll feel like I'm targeting them.
"I think we've got a hard start against Argentina. I've had a few tough games against them over the years."
The Leinster legend will be one of the most recognizable players at the Classic, not least because of the distinctive hairstyle that gives him his nickname.
"I'll be the short, hairy guy.
"Yep, I've still got the hairstyle. It wasn't there because of the rugby it's there because I bloody hate short hair," he joked.
As well as the hairstyle, Byrne is also notorious as the most accurate lineout thrower in the game.
"You've put a bit of pressure on me, now! But yes, it's something I've always worked on whatever team I've played in, it's not an accident."
He said he had still retained a good level of match sharpness.
"I retired from international rugby but I'm still playing so I'll bring a bit of what I always bring to teams. I still feel I can play to a high level."
Byrne knows the Classic is almost as much about the off-the-field action as it is about the rugby and he's determined to enjoy himself in Bermuda.
"I'm looking forward to the social side of it that's part of the attraction.
"I think it will definitely be a mix between the two - everybody will be up for the craic but that doesn't mean the games are not going to be competitive."
The Lions opening game is at 8:30pm, Monday, against Argentina.
Bermuda v Lloyd's
Meanwhile Bermuda will kick-off the Classic on Sunday with the opening game against Lloyds at 12:45 preceding a double-header of international action including Australia v Canada and France v South Africa.
Bermuda Select coach Johann Oosthuizen said training sessions in the run-up to the Classic had been packed and he and co-coach Chris Naylor had a hard job selecting the final squad. "Forwards to watch will be explosive hooker Thomas "Tank" Greenslade, reliable David Rourke, captain Pete Dunkerley and lively flanker Mike Barkhuizen.
"Stalwarts Mariner Jackson and Dave Bird should inject some experience coming off the bench in the second half. In the backline we're looking forward to seeing vice-captain Tom Healy combine with newcomers Ian Henderson and David Pringle while the experience of Chris Way at inside centre should provide some stability in the midfield.
"The exciting Bermuda 7's star Tom Edwards is sure to make an impact when introduced off the bench and will be looking to unleash hard running wingers Steve Husbands and Neil McGuiness."
Bermuda squad
Brian Desmond (Teachers), Thomas Greenslade (Teachers), Dustin Archibald (Mariners), Dave Rourke (Mariners), Pete Dunkerley (Renegades) - Captain, Conor McGlynn (Renegades), Mike Barkhuizen (Teachers), Luke Burgess (Teachers), Tom Healy (Renegades) - Vice Captain, Ian Henderson (Renegades), Steven Husbands (Mariners), Chris Way (Teachers), David Pringle (Police), Neil McGuiness (Renegades), Dave Porter (Teachers)
Substitutes
Ed Barnes (Mariners), Paul Dobinson (Renegades), Mariner Jackson (Renegades), Henry Paddison (Teachers), Dave Bird (Police), Tom Edwards (Police), Durnford Davis (Police), Jay Roobottom (Renegades), Mike Kane (Police), Jamie Billings (Police).
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