Cushendall were crowned the first provincial club champions of 2008 thanks to a 1-14 to 1-13 victory over Down champions Ballygalget in the Ulster club SHC final at Casement Park, on a day which saw 13 county finals around the country, and also action in the Ulster and Connacht provincial club championships.

The Ireland Under-21 team to play hosts France on the opening day of the 2006 IRB U-21 World Championship has been announced.

The Ireland Under-21 team to play Scotland Under-21 next Saturday has been named.

Japan gave Ireland Under-21 team the runaround in Nimes today, opening their Toulon Festival campaign with an eye-catching performance and a 2-0 victory.