Ruddock beefs up U20s for battle with Wales

IRELAND’S Under-20 team have followed a similar path to the senior team in their RBS Six Nations battle — wins over Italy and Scotland away and a home defeat to France.

But in a season disrupted by the unavailability of key players, particularly for the French game in Athlone, coach Mike Ruddock has been able to strengthen his team for the visit to Parc Y Scarlets (Llanelli) tomorrow night (kick-off 7.10pm).

The return of Luke Marshall and Craig Gilroy from Magners League duty for Ulster should help Ruddock, who believes his side have already shown considerable improvement between the French and Scottish matches.