Rhys Ruddock looking to bounce back from Ireland disappointment with Leinster

A superb servant for Leinster, and a frequent owner of the armband, he has had to sit and stew through plenty of big matches as others have been afforded the call before him

Ireland's Rhys Ruddock in action against France - the Leinster back-row's first Six Nations start. Picture: INPHO/Dan Sheridan

The curious case of Rhys Ruddock continues to confound.

Now 30 years of age, the powerful back row made his Ireland debut 11 years ago and, while he has captained his country and, while he has played at two World Cups, he was a bit-part presence at both and he can still only boast 27 caps.