Ireland U20s Prepare for South Africa Challenge in Cork
Ireland’s Under-20 rugby team is gearing up for a crucial test match against South Africa U20s this Friday, offering a vital opportunity to assess talent and build momentum ahead of the 2026 U20 Six Nations. This fixture, taking place at Virgin Media Park in Cork at 7:30 PM, represents an early but meaningful step in preparations for the February championship.
Head coach Browne and his team will be keenly focused on evaluating squad depth, refining combinations, and gauging player fitness levels against a traditionally strong South African side. You can expect a dynamic display as the team blends seasoned players with exciting new prospects from across all four Irish provinces.
Team Declaration & Key Players
Noah Byrne, the college’s leading try-scorer, will start at full-back, bringing a proven attacking threat to the backline. Sami Bishti, representing UCD and leinster, will captain the side, leading by example from the front row.
Here’s a look at the starting XV:
Backs:
* 15. Noah Byrne (DUFC/Leinster)
* 14. Charlie Molony (UCD/leinster)
* 13. Sean Walsh (Corinthians RFC/Connacht)
* 12. James O’leary (UCC/Munster)
* 11. Daniel Ryan (Corinthians RFC/Connacht)
* 10. Tom Wood (Garryowen/Munster)
* 9. Christopher barrett (UCC/Munster)
Forwards:
* 1. Max Doyle (UCD/Leinster)
* 2. Lee Fitzpatrick (Blackrock College RFC/Leinster)
* 3. Sami Bishti (UCD/Leinster) Captain
* 4. Donnacha McGuire (UCD/Leinster)
* 5. Dylan McNeice (UCD/Leinster)
* 6. Joe Finn (Garryowen/Munster)
* 7. Arthur Ashmore (Terenure College RFC/Leinster)
* 8. Diarmaid O’Connell (Corinthians RFC/Connacht)
Depth on the Bench
A strong bench provides valuable cover and tactical options. It’s clear the coaching staff is prioritizing versatility and competition for places.
The replacements are:
* 16. Rian Handley (Old Wesley RFC/Leinster)
* 17. christian Foley (Young Munster RFC/Munster)
* 18.Blake McClean (Instonians RFC/Ulster)
* 19. Sean Walsh (MU Barnhall RFC/Leinster)
* 20. Michael O’Sullivan (UCC/munster)
* 21. Fergus Callington (Durham University/IQ Rugby)
* 22. Conor O’shaughnessy (Galwegians RFC/Connacht)
* 23. Johnny O’Sullivan (DUFC/Leinster)
How to Watch & Support
Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the future stars of Irish rugby in action. Tickets are currently available for purchase through Ticketmaster.ie. If you can’t make it to Cork, you can catch all the action live on IrishRugby+, with coverage proudly supported by PwC, the official sponsor of the Ireland U20s.
This match isn’t just about the result; it’s about building a foundation for success in the upcoming Six Nations and beyond. Your support, whether in person or online, will undoubtedly inspire these young players as they strive to represent Ireland with pride.
