All-new Irish U20s front row for visit of Wales

Ireland head coach Richie Murphy has named an all-new front row for Friday night's U20 Six Nations clash against Wales at Virgin Media Park (kick-off 7.15pm).

Murphy, who was earlier today named as interim Ulster head coach following the departure of Dan McFarland, has made four changes in total in personnel from the side that squeezed past Italy last time out to make it two wins from two in the competition.

Ben Howard, Henry Walker and Patreece Bell all come into the front row, with Joe Hopes moving into the second row to partner captain Evan O’Connell.

After scoring the match-winning try against Italy last time out, Sean Edogbo earns his first start of the championship at blindside flanker, with Bryn Ward at openside and Luke Murphy at number eight.

It is an unchanged backline for the visit of the Welsh, with Ben O’Connor, Finn Treacy and Hugo McLaughlin making up the back three.

Wilhelm de Klerk and Hugh Gavin continue their partnership in midfield, while Jack Murphy and Oliver Coffey are retained in the half-backs.

Ireland currently occupy second spot in the table, a point off England who have opened with bonus-point victories, the most recent a 28-7 win over Wales.

Ireland U20s: Ben O'Connor; Finn Treacy, Wilhelm de Klerk, Hugh Gavin, Hugo McLaughlin; Jack Murphy, Oliver Coffey; Ben Howard, Henry Walker, Patreece Bell; Joe Hopes, Evan O'Connell (capt); Sean Edogbo, Bryn Ward, Luke Murphy

Replacements: Danny Sheahan, Alex Usanov, Jacob Boyd, Billy Corrigan, Tom Brigg, Tadhg Brophy, Sean Naughton, Davy Colbert.

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