The Counter Ruck Podcast

Taking a closer look at Ireland’s U20s; are new stars of the future emerging?

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After last year’s wooden spoon, has the age grade side turned a corner?

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Tom Wood of Ireland is tackled by Finn Keylock of England during the U20 Six Nations 2026 match between England and Ireland at The Recreation Ground on February 20, 2026 in Bath, England. Photograph: Dan Mullan/Getty Images
Tom Wood of Ireland is tackled by Finn Keylock of England during the U20 Six Nations 2026 match between England and Ireland at The Recreation Ground on February 20, 2026 in Bath, England. Photograph: Dan Mullan/Getty Images
Fri Feb 27 2026 - 05:00

Everyone loved a crisis talk after Ireland U20s and Ireland XV lost on the same weekend the senior side struggled in Paris.

Since then, though, the U20s have won back-to-back games, including an impressive display against England.

After last year’s wooden spoon, has the age grade side turned a corner? Is talk of a misfiring talent pipeline misguided?

John O’Sullivan joins Nathan Johns to put us all straight.

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Produced by John Casey.

Six NationsIreland Rugby U-20s

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