The U20s Six Nations Championship holds a pivotal role in the development of Irish rugby talent. A glance at the Ireland senior team reveals a common thread: the majority of these elite players have honed their skills in the U20s arena. This tournament serves as a crucial gateway for emerging Irish players, marking their transition from youth to professional rugby. Ireland, riding high on back-to-back Grand Slam victories in 2022 and 2023, and earlier successes in 2007, 2010, and 2019, is eyeing a historic third consecutive title.
This championship is more than just a competition; it's a platform for young rugby talents to demonstrate their talents on an international level. It also serves as a scouting ground for provincial coaches keen on nurturing homegrown talent, in line with Irish rugby's focus on domestic player development.
Under the highly experienced coach Richie Murphy, the team looks promising this season. Murphy has put together an impressive squad. The team is bolstered by the return of key players from last year's Grand Slam triumph: captain Evan O’Connell, second row partner Joe Hopes, hooker Danny Sheahan, back rower Brian Gleeson, and centre Hugh Gavin.
As we look ahead to the 2024 Ireland U20s squad - who are sponsored by PwC Ireland - it's worth keeping an eye out for emerging talents. This new crop of players are set to bring fresh energy and skills, potentially shaping the future of Irish rugby.
Oliver Coffey (Blackrock College RFC/Leinster)
17 March 2023; Oliver Coffey of Blackrock College during the Bank of Ireland Leinster Schools Senior Cup Final match between Gonzaga College and Blackrock Collegee at RDS Arena in Dublin. Photo by Sam Barnes/Sportsfile
Oliver Coffey is a scrum-half who has been turning heads within Leinster rugby circles over the past few years. Emerging from the renowned Blackrock College, Coffey has been recently showcasing his talent in the 1B division of the AIL for Blackrock College rugby club. His game intelligence and strategic vision have been standout features, making him a threat with his dynamic breaks from rucks and his adept kicking abilities. His agility and strength make him a formidable competitor on the field. Also noteworthy is Tadhg Brophy, another scrum half in the squad, known for his speed and agility, making him an ideal choice to impact a game late on.
Jack Murphy (Clontarf FC/Leinster)
15 December 2023; Jack Murphy of Ireland during the U20 international friendly match between Ireland and Italy at UCD Bowl in Dublin. Photo by Seb Daly/Sportsfile
Jack Murphy is the next in a line of exceptional fly-halves produced by the Ireland u20s, following the likes of Jack Crowley, Harry Byrne, and Sam Prendergast. Murphy, the son of coach Richie Murphy, displays a deep understanding of the game and brings a new level of sophistication to his kicking strategies. While he may not be the captain, his leadership in team strategy will be vital for the team. Despite his slight build, Murphy's competitive nature and spatial control, combined with excellent decision-making, make him a key player to watch, especially in the opening game against France.
Aitzol King crosses the whitewash, with Jack Murphy converting.@YoungMunsterRFC 13 - 38 Clontarf#WhoAreWe #ClontarfRugby #EnergiaAIL pic.twitter.com/rNrfKeGvO3
— Clontarf Rugby Club (@ClontarfRugby) November 4, 2023
Ben O’Connor (UCC RFC/Munster)
5 January 2024; Ben O'Connor of Ireland during the Challenge Match between Ireland U20s and Leinster Development at Energia Park in Dublin. Photo by Harry Murphy/Sportsfile
Ben O’Connor is another standout player. His transition from Cork GAA to Munster’s Academy has been much talked about, and his performances justify the attention. Playing as a full-back, O’Connor has already debuted for the senior Munster team and shows promise for more appearances. Known for his speed, power, and aerial skills, O’Connor's athletic versatility is highlighted by his achievements in both rugby and hurling at the youth level.
Wilhelm de Klerk (UCD RFC/Leinster)
15 December 2023; Wilhelm De Klerk of Ireland during the U20 international friendly match between Ireland and Italy at UCD Bowl in Dublin. Photo by Seb Daly/Sportsfile
Wilhelm de Klerk made a significant impact in the Ireland u20s victory over Italy u20s in their warm up game in December. A product of St. Michael’s College, de Klerk primarily plays in the centre but has the versatility to cover various positions in the backline. His exceptional running lines pose a significant challenge to any defence, and his combination of speed, agility, and power makes him a continual threat.
An interesting addition to the second row is Alan Spicer of UCD RFC. Standing at an impressive 6ft 10in, Spicer brings a unique physical presence to the Irish squad. Although still under 19 and potentially absent from early rounds, his performance for UCD against Lansdowne indicates a bright future. As Spicer acclimates to the pace of this level of play, he is likely to gain valuable experience and confidence, making him a player to keep an eye on as the tournament progresses.
Jack Murphy isn’t the only player with dad's with rich heritage within the game. Two former Ulster players Andy Ward & Clem Boyd have sons in the 2024 squad. Jacob Boyd is an athletic and powerful prop, while Bryn Ward is a dynamic backrow player like his dad. Both players have played at Ireland u19s level last year.
The Squad
- 31 players (11 Leinster, 8 Munster, 7 Ulster, 3 Connacht & 2 IQ players).
- 5 players have already been capped at u20s level in 2023.
- 12 Academy Contracted players
- 2 Players with Senior European Cup experience
- 4 Players have played in the URC for their province.
IRELAND U20 MEN’S SIX NATIONS FIXTURES:
- Saturday, February 3: France v Ireland, Stade Maurice David, Aix-en-Provence, 9.10pm local time/8.10pm Irish time
- Friday, February 9: Ireland v Italy, Virgin Media Park, 7.15pm
- Friday, February 23: Ireland v Wales, Virgin Media Park, 7.15pm
- Friday, March 8: England v Ireland, Recreation Ground, Bath, 7.15pm
- Friday, March 15: Ireland v Scotland, Virgin Media Park, 7pm
