For many players, representing Ireland at U20s is a vital stepping stone, launching them into international rugby and giving them a taste of the calibre needed to perform at senior level.

Peter O’Mahony will retire to the stands as an Ireland supporter secure in his belief that the future of Irish rugby is in good ... “There's going to be loads of players stepping into that.

Irish rugby has traditionally offered a “Céad míle fáilte” to rugby players who came to play ... then fell to a bruising Leicester Tigers team in another decider two years later.