Tipp rugby star will play for Irish team in World Cup semi-final against England this Sunday

Tipperary and Munster rugby star Brian Gleeson will line out for the Irish U20 team in the World Cup semi-final against the old enemy, England, on Sunday in what will be his first appearance of this tournament after a return from injury.

Gleeson was originally due to bow against Australia on Tuesday, with Ireland knowing that avoiding defeat would send them through as pool winners.

He was also named to captain the side in the absence of team captain Evan O’Connell through injury.

However, once the Cape Town weather ensured the Athlone Stadium surface was unplayable, both sides were awarded two points, leaving Ireland atop Pool B on 11 points and straight into the semi-final.

Playing at the same ground, once conditions at the Athlone Stadium improved, England notched a try with the last play of the game to beat South Africa and secure the top spot in Pool B. New Zealand finished at the head of Pool A after their game against Spain was called off at half-time, again due to weather, with the result of the time standing.

With 15 total points, New Zealand are the top seed and play France, the best runner-up and the final qualifier. England, as second seed on 14 points, will play Ireland, ranked as the third qualifier.

Ireland v England, DHL Stadium, Sunday, July 14th at 3.30