President Higgins Wishes Ireland U-20s Luck Ahead Of Cape Town Final

The President of Ireland, Michael D Higgins, has written to the Ireland Under-20 squad to wish them luck in Friday’s World Rugby U-20 Championship final against France in Cape Town.

In a letter to the team, President Higgins has praised the ‘talent, resilience and teamwork’ demonstrated by Richie Murphy’s side as they prepare for their title showdown with France at the Athlone Sports Stadium (kick-off 6pm Irish time – live on Virgin Media Two and on World Rugby platforms).

After achieving memorable Grand Slam success back in March, the Ireland U-20s, led superbly by captain Gus McCarthy, are aiming to make history in Cape Town, having defeated Australia, Fiji and South Africa to qualify for the global decider.

“Your journey to the final, not just in this tournament but also by winning the Six Nations Championship earlier this year, has been a wonderful achievement,” wrote President Higgins wrote.

“It is truly a remarkable demonstration of the talent, resilience, and teamwork in Irish Rugby.

“This dedication, sportsmanship, and commitment to the sport have given great heart to all those who love Irish Rugby, and your team’s excellent performances in South Africa this summer are proof that you have thoroughly deserved to go through to this year’s final.

“On behalf of the people of Ireland, may I send my very best wishes to all the players and staff, and all those who have helped along the way, as you prepare to meet France tomorrow.”