McHugh takes IRUPA chair

Connacht fullback Mark McHugh has been appointed the second chairman of the Irish Rugby Union Players Association (IRUPA).

McHugh was voted in unanimously at the December meeting of the IRUPA executive committee and succeeds former Leinster flanker Liam Toland, who has retired from professional rugby to resume his army career.

McHugh will work alongside chief executive Niall Woods and his fellow player representatives from around the country to ensure the collective views of all players continues to be heard by the IRFU on all matters that relate to its members' employment as professional rugby players.

On his appointment McHugh said: "I believe 100 per cent in the ongoing growth of IRUPA and feel very strongly about player welfare, and improving the employment conditions of all players in the country. While many people see the glamour of a career in professional rugby, there are many pitfalls that all players need to be prepared for."

The Drogheda-born McHugh previously played with Leinster and St Mary's College and won one cap for Ireland, against Tonga during the summer tour of 2003, when he scored a try.

Woods added: "This is a key appointment in the continued evolvement of IRUPA. Mark has played top-class rugby for a number of years now and has the respect of the players around the country.

"I look forward to working alongside him and all the player representatives in continuing to safeguard the future of the players. This appointment can only benefit IRUPA in developing even further."

Meanwhile, Leinster seem certain to welcome back wing Gary Brown for Saturday night's game against The Borders. The Blackrock College player came through a club match unscathed and is likely to play on the wing.

Given that the national team players are being rested, Felipe Contepomi is likely start at full back with Kieran Lewis and David Quinlan in the centre and David Holwell at outhalf. David Blaney should be in the middle of the front row while Ben Gissing seems certain to win his 50th Leinster cap. Victor Costello could captain the side but coach Declan Kidney won't confirm his team until the day of the game.

Connacht have brought forward their Celtic League game against Llanelli Scarlets from Saturday, February 19th, to Friday, February 18th, with a change of venue to Dubarry Park, Athlone, (7.30 p.m.). Scarlets have also announced a change to one of their home fixtures, the game against Cardiff Blues on the weekend of March 18th has reverted to Stradey Park from the Racecourse Ground, Wrexham.