IRFU tries clubs’ patience

PROVINCES and Irish clubs yesterday were seething at the apparent lack of concern shown by the IRFU over the timing of the announcement of the national team, which prevented them finalising their teams for important weekend games.

Leinster and Munster, facing into Celtic League fixtures and clubs involved in a full programme of AIB League games had their selection plans delayed until the Irish squad of 22 players for the opening Six Nations game with France was finally clarified in mid-afternoon.

Leinster had nine players called to international duty but an injury crisis played additional havoc as they attempted to finalise a squad for a trip to Wales to play Gwent Dragons this evening.