Last weekend, either side of Ireland’s Six Nations victory in Cardiff, other Irish sides struggled. The U20s were on the wrong side of the result in Newport, the first time they’ve lost to Wales at that level since 2018. Ireland A were also in action in a rare second team fixture, losing to England A in Bristol. 

Ireland’s development pathway receives regular praise for punching above its weight. However, was last weekend a reminder of the cyclical nature of talent identification, or are there deeper underlying issues? What to make of the coaching staffs of both junior sides? Did they make the correct decisions, tactically and in terms of selection? 

Despite the results, were there any players who furthered their cause, who enhanced their reputation in a bid to kickstart an international career?

Produced by John Casey.

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