James Ryan looking to lead ‘through his actions’

James Ryan will captain Ireland against England at the weekend. Picture: INPHO/Dan Sheridan

Whether they played with him in school or alongside him on his Test debut, James Ryan’s elevation to the Ireland captaincy came as no surprise to international team-mates, all of whom have long recognised his leadership qualities.

Ryan will lead Ireland at Twickenham on Saturday when Andy Farrell’s men face England, the lock having assumed the captain’s role from Johnny Sexton last Friday against Wales when the veteran fly-half was forced off with a hamstring injury that has ruled him out this weekend.