World Cup-winning South African scrum-half Faf de Klerk looks set to leave Sale Sharks at the end of this season.

If Jono Ross’s analysis of Akker van der Merwe as ‘Schalk Brits with added physicality’ turns out to be accurate Sale Sharks could be going places next season.

Irish coach Nigel Carolan insists James Ryan is destined for full international glory and expects his skipper to establish himself on the global stage at the World Rugby Under-20 Championship in Manchester.

England Under-20 coach Martin Haag has downplayed his role and the team’s chance for glory in favour of player development and pride in wearing the jersey at this month’s World Rugby Under-20 Championship.

Head coach John Dalziel believes his Scotland Under-20 side can match the achievements of former stars Mark Bennett and Jonny Gray in the 2016 World Rugby Under-20 Championship in Manchester.

Ireland Under-20 captain James Ryan insists his burgeoning reputation is bottom of his concerns as he prepares to tackle Jason Strange’s Grand Slam winning Welshmen in the World Rugby Under-20 Championship in Manchester.

Baby Blacks head coach Scott Robertson has backed Jordie Barrett to light up the World Rugby Under-20s Championship in Manchester as they prepare to defend their title.

Scotland Under-20 captain Scott Cummings believes squad unity as well as PRO12 and Aviva Premiership experiences will set them in good stead for the tournament ahead.

Skipper Leni Apisai is confident his Baby Blacks side have what it takes to clinch a second consecutive World Rugby Under-20 Championship.