Ireland international set for stunning switch to Wales this Six Nations – report

Adam Kyriacou 07 Jan 2024 4:12 PM

Leinster trio James Lowe, Robbie Henshaw and Rhys Ruddock in foreground.

Wales could turn to former Ireland captain Rhys Ruddock as a playing option during this year’s Six Nations, with the blindside flanker becoming eligible in mid-February.

The 33-year-old Leinster stalwart has won 27 caps for Ireland but the Dublin-born back-row hasn’t played an international Test in almost three years so could switch countries.

He would be able to play for Wales due to having a Welsh-born father and grandparents, with the hard-working forward also having represented Wales at U18 level in the past.

It would be a Test first

Irish Mirror have reported the possible shock switch which would make Ruddock the first player to pull on both the Ireland and Wales jersey at senior international level.

“It’s not for me to tell Wales who to select, but purely as a father I would love to see him pull on a red jersey,” his father, the former Wales boss Mike Ruddock, told the website.

“It’s where he grew up as a rugby player, he played for Wales U18s before his life took a different turn and I’m sure he would add a huge amount of experience and leadership qualities to that squad.

“I think a lot of people would love to see him back playing his rugby in Wales again.”

If a switch was to happen it would be welcome news for current Wales head coach Warren Gatland, who is struggling for options in the back-row due to several injuries.

He is already without Taulupe Faletau, Jac Morgan and Christ Tshiunza, with Faletau having been sidelined since the 2023 Rugby World Cup after suffering a broken arm.

Wales debut v Ireland?

Unfortunately for Wales, Dublin-born Leinster veteran Ruddock would not be available until February 14 when it would be three years since his last Test run-out for Ireland.

That means he cannot play in Gatland’s side’s matches against Scotland (home) and England (away) but would be eligible to face off with Ireland in Dublin in Round Three.

Following that visit to the Aviva Stadium, Wales will wrap up their 2024 Six Nations campaign with a home fixtures against France (March 10) and Italy (March 16).

Internationals