Tullow Man Charlie Ward and Kilkennys Tim Corkey are on the bench for the Ireland Under-20s’ first away trip of the season takes them to Franklin’s Gardens, the home of Northampton Saints.
Ireland Under-20 head coach Noel McNamara has made four changes to the team that defeated Wales 36-20 last time out, with Ulster duo Ethan McIlroy and Hayden Hyde both returning to the starting XV after illness.
Speaking ahead of the trip to Northampton, McNamara said: “We’re pleased to have won the opening two games, while still recognising that there is room for growth. The players are ambitious and they are constantly looking for improvements in their performance, both individually and collectively.
“That’s the target for Friday night. The fallow week (last week) was important as it allowed the players to take a breath and recover, as well as review the first block of games and look ahead to this weekend.
“We also had a great session with the Ireland senior team at our home in Irish Independent Park and are now firmly focused on the challenge ahead against England.”
Here’s an interview with Tullow man Charlie Ward ahead of the game.