Mark Downey won’t be 21 until July but he is already one of the most decorated Irish track riders of all time.

Ireland Womens coach Kevin West has recalled five players for their Six Nations clash with France in Blois, near Paris, for Friday night.

Richard Collins on the wonders of France’s great untamed river.

Scott Dougal

Edinburgh Reivers back-row Simon Taylor will get the chance to stake his place for an international recall when he starts for Scotland A against Wales at Myerside on Friday.