GARRYOWEN’S Brian Gleeson has been named in the Ireland XV for the World Cup Under-20 outing with Australia in Paarl (South Africa) this Thursday (10am local time).
He is named in a back row that also comprises of Ulster’s James McNabney and Ruadhan Quinn, Old Crescent.
Also part of the matchday squad are Evan O’Connell (UL Bohemian) and Jack Oliver of Garryowen, who is in line to win his first international cap at this level.
In their opening bout, Ireland tied with England 34 points apiece, while Australia defeat Fiji (46-37).
Ahead of the match, Ireland coach Richie Murphy said: “It has been a quick turnaround from Saturday but we were able to turn the page positively, and learn from our first outing of the tournament.”
“We know the very nature of this Championship is that the big games come thick and fast and facing the Junior Wallabies is another huge test for our group. We’re looking forward to the challenge.”
The fixture, for which Ireland are marginal favourites, will be broadcast live on Virgin Media Two.
Ireland: Henry McErlean; Andrew Osborne, Hugh Gavin, John Devine, James Nicholson; Sam Prendergast, Fintan Gunne; Paddy McCarthy, Gus McCarthy (capt), Ronan Foxe; Charlie Irvine, Conor O’Tighearnaigh; James McNabney, Ruadhan Quinn, Brian Gleeson.
Replacements: Danny Sheahan, George Morris, Fiachna Barrett, Evan O’Connell, Diarmuid Mangan, Jack Oliver, Harry West, Rory Telfer.
Ireland complete the group stages against Fiji on Tuesday next.
