Jackson named in Irish U20 squad

Ulster’s Paddy Jackson is named in the Ireland U20 squad for next month’s IRB World Junior Championships in South Africa.

Jackson, sensationally called up to start the Heineken Cup semi-final win over Edinburgh ahead of Ian Humphreys, is one of seven players who featured in the 2011 tournament. Mike Ruddock’s men are drawn in Pool B alongside England, Italy and the host nation.

Ruddock said: “We are coming into the IRB Junior World Championship on the back of a relatively successful Six Nations having won four out of five matches. This gives us some confidence. However, we are in an extremely physical group. We have hosts South Africa up first, followed by the 6 Nations champions England and then the ever improving Italians. It will require a massive effort from our part but we intend to give it our best shot.”