Murphy, Ruddock ready to step up

Leinster’s dynamic back row duo of Jordi Murphy and Rhys Ruddock are ready, willing and able to step up to the plate for Ireland against Italy should Peter O’Mahony’s hamstring strain sideline him next month.

Murphy came on against England at Twickenham on Saturday to earn his first senior cap, while Ruddock has been used as cover in the guise of the 24th man in recent weeks. Both have played exceptionally for their province this season.

“Those guys are definitely in the mix and Jordi got his first cap, which was fantastic, on the weekend,” said Leinster manager Guy Easterby.