As the saying goes, champions aren’t born. They’re built.
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With Ireland eyeing their third consecutive Six Nations win, it’s only fitting to reflect on the rise of Irish rugby over the years. 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.
For 20 years, the Ireland underage program, sponsored by PwC, has produced some of the greatest rugby players to ever play the game. Here, we look at 10 of the most impactful players to come through the Ireland underage ranks.
Johnny Sexton – 2006
Before becoming one of the most celebrated fly-halves in world rugby, Johnny Sexton was already showcasing his playmaking brilliance and leadership as part of the Ireland U21s team in 2006. He went on to captain the national team, leading Ireland to multiple historic victories. Sexton earned 119 caps for Ireland, scoring over 1000 points and winning four Six Nations titles for Ireland and four Champions Cup titles for Leinster.
Cian Healy – 2007
From a young age, Cian Healy was considered to be one of the most naturally talented and dynamic props in Ireland. After playing Ireland U20s in 2007, Healy began his senior career, marked by his remarkable consistency at the highest level. He has since become Ireland’s most capped player, with 134 senior caps and also holds the record for the most caps for Leinster.
Peter O’Mahony – 2009
Peter O’Mahony’s leadership qualities were evident from an early age. As part of the 2009 U20s squad, he showed the physicality and grit that would later make him a cornerstone of Munster and Ireland’s back row. He has also captained the Irish senior team and the British & Irish Lions.
Conor Murray – 2009
As part of the U20s squad in 2009, Conor Murray displayed the game management and tactical skills that would later define his senior career. Murray has become one of the world’s top scrum-halves, having earned over 100 caps for Ireland and playing a pivotal role in multiple British & Irish Lions tours.
Tadhg Furlong – 2011 & 2012
Tadhg Furlong’s talent was evident during his time with the U20s in 2011 and 2012. Widely considered to be one of the world’s best tighthead props, Furlong has become a cornerstone of Ireland’s pack, excelling in scrummaging and open play. His success includes two Grand Slams with Ireland and selection for consecutive British & Irish Lions tours.
Garry Ringrose – 2014
Garry Ringrose’s journey to the national team is one of resilience. Shortly after receiving his first U20s cap in 2014, he was dropped. Later that year, he was called up for the Junior World Cup, where he ended up being shortlisted for player of the tournament. He has since become one of the most outstanding centres in the world and his rugby intelligence and running lines have often been compared to those of the iconic Brian O’Driscoll.
Andrew Porter – 2015 & 2016
Andrew Porter featured in two Ireland U20s campaigns (2015 and 2016), where his size and power immediately set him apart. Since making his senior debut in 2017, he has established himself as one of the world’s best loosehead props and a dominant force in the scrum. His exceptional skill, relentless work ethic and physicality have made him an indispensable player for Ireland and a formidable presence on the international stage.
Caelan Doris – 2017 & 2018
Caelan Doris was a standout performer during his time with the U20s in 2017 and 2018 and his athleticism and rugby IQ were immediately apparent. Since leaping into the senior team, he has become an indispensable part of Ireland’s back row and his natural leadership saw him appointed as captain ahead of the 2024 Autumn Nation Series and the 2025 Guinness Six Nations. Though only 26, he has established himself as one of the world’s best forwards and a key player in the national team and Leinster.
Looking over this list, it’s easy to see the calibre that comes from Ireland’s U20s. As rugby continues to thrive across the country, there’s no doubt that Ireland will continue to solidify itself as one of the greatest rugby nations.
For 20 years, PwC has proudly supported the future of Irish rugby and the next chapter of this partnership promises to be as impactful as the last. Discover how PwC transforms potential into success here.
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