Ruddock is expected to be named captain

last February which Ireland won 56-19. ‘But we are a different team now, we have matured, and in the last game against Japan in the summer, we showed some real quality. I believe this team can cause trouble for Ireland,’ he added. Since taking over two years ago, former Ireland full-back O’Shea has focused on strengthening Italian rugby at all levels and Biagi feels improved displays by Treviso and Zebre in the Pro14 offer hope for a big display on Saturday ‘There is a synergy between the Italian national management and the franchises now, that is a long path that will bear fruit over time. But, even now, you can see we’re on the right path, the results will come.’ The Ireland players have a day off in Chicago today before Schmidt names his team tomorrow, when Leinster flanker Rhys Ruddock is expected to lead the side with captain Rory Best and vice captains Peter O’Mahony and Johnny Sexton in Ireland.