Irish U-20 coach Mike Ruddock believes his side can follow up on last year’s stunning opening day victory against South Africa by again laying down an early marker in the opening game of the Junior World Championship against Australia in Vannes this evening (5.45pm Irish time).

Ireland U20 22 France U20 5

Six Nations: Scotland U20 21 Ireland U20 20

U20 Six Nations: Ireland 16 England 15

U20 Six Nations: Wales 17 Ireland 15