Fans Stunned as Former Ireland Star Belts Out National Anthem Before All Blacks Clash

Barry Murphy, who normally rocks the stage with his band Hermitage Green, made history ahead of Saturday’s clash in Chicago by becoming the first ex-Ireland international to sing Ireland’s Call.

Murphy, who earned four caps between 2005 and 2007 and crossed the try line once, traded his boots for a mic—and the fans had opinions.

One supporter cheered: “V emosh watching Barry Murphy belt that out in Axel’s jersey.”

Another wasn’t so sure: “Christ, I never want to see that Barry Murphy sing ever again.”

And a third noted the style points: “Barry Murphy with a classy gesture, wearing Axel Foley’s jersey for Ireland’s Call in Chicago.”

Another said: "Loved seeing Barry Murphy belt that out. Class act."

From pitch to podium, Murphy proved he can still command a crowd—just in a slightly different key.