Ruddock skippers Irish for New Zealand clash

CIARÁN RUDDOCK has been installed as captain for the Ireland U20s’ pivotal Pool A clash against holders, New Zealand, in the world junior championships at Nagoya, Japan today (11am Irish time).

The son of former Leinster and Wales head coach, Mike, takes the armband after Peter O’Mahony was suspended for one match following the opening game against Argentina on Friday.

Ruddock’s brother, Rhys, is picked in O’Mahony’s No 8 position while Leinster’s Jack McGrath moves across from loose head to tight-head prop. Adam Macklin fills the No 3 shirt which sees Patrick McAllister drop down to the replacements.