We’re very lucky to have Schmidt as Ireland coach, says flanker Ruddock

Joe Schmidt’s “incredible impact” has made Ireland believe they can beat anyone in the world, according to Rhys Ruddock. The Leinster flanker will captain Ireland in today’s Dublin Test clash with the United States, with head coach Schmidt having made 14 changes from the side that stunned world champions New Zealand 16-9 last week.

Schmidt will announce his decision on his long-term future next week, with the Kiwi expected to return to his native New Zealand after next year’s World Cup. Schmidt has guided Ireland from eighth to second in the world rankings and overseen three Six Nations titles in five years – and Ruddock believes because of the 53-year-old the men in green now fear no one.

“It’s obvious he’s an incredible coach and he’s had an incredible impact on the environment as well in Leinster,” said Ruddock. “I was able to experience that first-hand and now with Ireland as well.

“But the impact he has on the group, and the belief over the long term, that has grown and grown. We’re very lucky we’ve got him.”