Meath players set to take on England

This weekend promises to be special for a number of rugby players from Meath who are in line to play in the green of Ireland against English teams at Twickenham.

Devin Toner looks odds on to retain his lock forward position as Joe Schmidt’s team go in search of a Triple Crown when they take England in the men's curtain-raiser at 4.0.

The Moynalvey giant has been a regular on the national team since Schmidt took charge and after impressive outings against Scotland and Wales in recent weeks it appears certain he will partner Paul O’Connell in the second row.

After the men’s game is completed it will be the turn of another lock forward, Marie Louise Reilly, to take the field for the women’s international between the two countries.

Reilly also looks certain to take her place in the Irish team from the kick-off while Jackie Shiels and Grace Davitt are likely to be among the replacements.

Shiels has stated that she would love to play a part in that game as she is employed as a teacher in London and passes Twickenham every day on her way to work.

She plays her rugby with Richmond along with another Irish international Lynne Cantwell. Shiels would welcome the chance to add to her collection of caps in such surroundings.

The women’s team is also hunting for a Triple Crown and after completing the Grand Slam last year they will go into Saturday’s game optimistic of achieving a victory in the home of English rugby.

Jimmy Geoghegan.