EVAN O’CONNELL of UL Bohemian has been handed the number four Ireland jersey for this Tuesday’s (12.30pm kick-off, live Virgin Media Two) Under-20 World Cup encounter with Fiji at Danie Craven Stadium in Stellenbosch, South Africa.
The 19-year-old lock, standing at a towering 6’ 7”, is a nephew of Paul O’Connell, a legend of the sport.
Garryowen’s Brian Gleeson continues as number eight, while club mates Max Clein and Jack Oliver are amongst the replacements.
Ruadhan Quinn of Old Crescent is an injury concern after sustaining a knock in the win over Australia.
Ireland drew with England in the opening fixture and are bang in contention for a semi-final berth.
Commented Head Coach Richie Murphy: “There is real excitement among the group as players get their starting opportunity in a green jersey and we’re looking forward to seeing how they perform and put their best foot forward for the team as we bid to finish the Pool stages strongly and give ourselves the best chance of progressing through to the semi-finals.”
