MANY RHYSONS TO PICK RUDDOCK

RHYS RUDDOCK said he was “excited and delighted” to be handed the captaincy for Ireland’s summer tour. Although he has only been capped 13 times, Ruddock’s Test career spans seven years and the flanker would have much more experience at the top level but for a number of injury problems. “It’s been really exciting so far, the enthusiasm is evident out on the field and we have to make sure we’re best prepared as soon as we hit the ground in the States,” said Ruddock. He acknowledged the captaincy was a boost after Leinster’s Champions Cup and PRO12 semi-final defeats in recent weeks. “I suppose the best thing about it is I had this tour to look forward to,” said Ruddock. “The potential to play three Test matches and it was good to have that focus switch. Schmidt had no hesitation in making Ruddock captain. “Rhys has been on the squad a long time,” he said. “He’s had a few injuries and therefore missed out. “He was one of the guys who came to South Africa last year and led by example. He captained Leinster while I was there, so I know he can do the job first hand and he has a fair measure of respect from his fellow players. “It’s a very young group and some of the guys who’ve led the team – Rory, Jamie, Peter O’mahony. I think four years ago Peter O’mahony was the guy who led the tour so it’s time for the mantle to be handed on. “Rhys is an ideal candidate.” Meanwhile, Sean Reidy, inset, will meet up with Ireland in Japan after getting a late call-up for the second leg of the summer tour. The Kiwi returned to New Zealand at the end of Ulster’s season but an ankle injury has ruled Munster’s Tommy O’donnell out and Joe Schmidt has turned to the 28-year-old back row instead. O’donnell is expected to miss four weeks.