Wolfhounds sniff Ireland chance

James Coughlan will captain the Ireland Wolfhounds in Galway tonight telling his players they all have an opportunity to stake a claim for a part in the upcoming RBS 6 Nations campaign.

The Munster number eight was appointed captain by Ireland head coach Declan Kidney for this evening’s meeting with England Saxons at the Sportsground (7.35pm), with the Irish management waiting until after the game to make a 30-man selection for the senior squad to reconvene at Carton House on Sunday and prepare to face a Six Nations opener against defending Grand Slam winners Wales in Cardiff six days later.

Coughlan, 32, leads a side mixed with plenty of experience in terms of age and international caps as well exciting and youthful talent, including 19-year-old Connacht full-back Robbie Henshaw, all of whom the Cork man believes have been given a chance to make their mark.