Bryn Ward: 'Fitness could be a big part of it this week, so we can take them to that place where they can’t cope'

FITNESS IS KEY: Bryn Ward learned from an early age the fitter you are the more you enjoy the game. Pic: ©INPHO/Ben Brady

When it comes to learning about the intricacies of being an openside flanker at international level, Ireland U20s star Bryn Ward doesn’t have far to look for some sage-like wisdom.

Originally from Whangārei in New Zealand, Ward’s father Andy moved to Ireland in 1994 and subsequently donned the number seven jersey for Ulster during their historic Heineken Cup final success over Colomiers at the old Lansdowne Road five years later. He also picked up 28 senior international caps for Ireland from 1998 to 2001 - all of them coming under his fellow Kiwi Warren Gatland.