Scots and Irish consider U20 exit

SCOTLAND are understood to be ready to join Ireland in withdrawing their Under-20 sides from future Junior World Championships, it emerged yesterday.

Uncertainty surrounds both countries’ ongoing participation in the International Rugby Board’s (IRB) flagship junior tournament following reports yesterday that the IRFU is poised to withdraw from the competition from next year.

The timing of the competition and the number of games — five in 17 days — are believed to be the primary concerns, along with cost issues, even though the IRB covers flights and hotel expenses for each of the 12 competing countries.