Two Sale FC stars, Fergus Mulchrone and Daniel Birchall, have been selected to represent the Barbarians in their upcoming fixtures against Durham University and Glasgow Academicals — a huge honour for the players and a proud moment for the club.
The Barbarians, affectionately known as the Baabaas, are one of rugby’s most iconic sides — a team without a home, pulling together players from all over the world to celebrate the spirit of the game. Known for their attacking rugby, flair, and camaraderie, the Barbarians offer something truly unique in sport: a reminder that joy, friendship, and adventure still lie at the heart of the game. Seeing some of the greats of the game such as Campese, Cooper, Ashton and Youngs
For Daniel Birchall, the call-up is both a surprise and a moment to savour.
“It’s a great honour to be selected to be a part of the rich rugby history the Barbarians boasts. There’s nothing quite like it anywhere else in sport,” said Birchall, who has anchored the Sale front row for several seasons.
Rather than setting his sights on stats or accolades, Dan’s goal is simple:
“My only real goal is to enjoy the experience of it all, especially as it’s something I never thought I’d get the opportunity to do.”
He’s also looking forward to a few familiar faces turning teammates.
“It’s always a great experience coming together with new players, and it’s always refreshing working with guys who have been your opposition for a lot of years.”
And of course, when it comes to what socks he’ll wear — a Barbarian tradition that lets each player represent their club — there was only one option:
“I feel like wearing anything other than the blue and white hoops wouldn’t be quite right. Sale FC has been the place I’ve played at for the longest now and I’ll be proud to represent the club in this fairly unique way.”
🙌 “Just fortunate an opportunity like this arose.”
For Fergus Mulchrone, it’s a well-earned nod toward the closing chapters of a storied playing career:
“A real honour to play for such a prestigious club and just fortunate enough that an opportunity like this arose before playing days finished.”
Still sharp and competitive, Fergus isn’t ruling out a highlight-reel performance either:
“Hopefully learn from some great players that have been assembled, but a hat-trick of tries and a drop goal off each foot would be nice,” he joked.
As for who he’s looking forward to playing alongside?
“Tom Walsh talks of the Bragman — or Bragdaddy — very highly, so he’s one of a few.”
Like Dan, Fergus will also proudly be wearing the Sale FC blue and white hoops on his socks — carrying the club into two thrilling Barbarian fixtures.
Everyone at Sale FC sends congratulations to Fergus and Dan on their selection. Representing the club among such an iconic group is a moment t
o be cherished — and no doubt, they’ll both bring their trademark skill and energy to the field.
Keep your eyes on the Barbarians’ social channels over the next two weeks — and we’ll be sharing updates as the tour unfolds.