Ireland U20s have the chance to reach their second World Championship final in-a-row this weekend when they come up against the old foe England in the semifinals of the World Rugby U20s Championships.
These two played out a classic draw in the U20s Six Nations back in March and both along with New Zealand have looked very strong so far in these championships.
It won't be one you want to miss so here's everything you need to know about Ireland U20s against England.
When And Where Is Ireland U20s Vs England Taking Place?
The match will take place on Sunday 14th July at 3:30pm Irish time from the DHL Stadium in Cape Town, South Africa.
How To Watch Ireland U20s Vs England
The game isn't available to watch on television but you can catch a livestream of the game on RugbyPass TV. It's free to watch, all you have to do is create an account.
Team News
So obviously Ireland didn't play their last game against Australia due to the rain leaving the pitch at Athlone Sports Stadium unplayable. This has given Ireland over a week of rest now heading into their semifinal.
The one big injury issue that Willie Faloon may have to contend with is with captain Evan O'Connell. O'Connell came off injured towards the end of the match against Georgia and was pictured on crutches and in a boot ahead of the Australia match.
With O’Connell unfortunately ruled out of the remainder of the tournament through injury, Brian Gleeson captains the team from the back row. Gleeson was instrumental in Ireland's comeback win against Georgia off the bench and he will surely be looking to make a similar impact against England.
Ben O’Connor, Finn Treacy and Hugo McLaughlin continue in an unchanged Ireland back three, with Hugh Gavin and Wilhelm de Klerk named in midfield. Oliver Coffey and Jack Murphy continue their half-back pairing.
In the forwards, Ben Howard, Danny Sheahan and Jacob Boyd pack down in the front row, with Alan Spicer partnering James McKillop in the engine room. Sean Edogbo is at blindside flanker, with Bryn Ward at openside and captain Gleeson completing the starting XV at number eight.
The Ireland Men's U20s team to face England in Sunday's World Rugby U20 Championship semi-final in Cape Town! 🟢#FutureIsGreen
— Irish Rugby (@IrishRugby) July 12, 2024
England did play their third pool game against South Africa and it took an 86th minute try to beat the hosts and head to the semifinals.
It's celebration time for @EnglandRugby 🏴#WorldRugbyU20s | #RSAvENG pic.twitter.com/vTkcAyLRZH
— World Rugby (@WorldRugby) July 9, 2024
They are led by a powerful pack captained by Finn Carnduff and the ever impressive Henry Pollock.
Ready for the challenge 👊
Mark Mapletoft has named his 23-player squad for England U20 Men's #WorldRugbyU20s semi-final against Ireland 🙌🌹
— England Rugby (@EnglandRugby) July 12, 2024
It will be a battle of two of the northern hemisphere's best this Sunday and Ireland look to make even more history at this level and reach a second straight final.
