Overview
- After impressing in Portugal and standing out in the Ireland XV defeat to England A, Ward was retained by Andy Farrell and is in contention to face Italy.
- He has made nine appearances and five starts for Ulster this season following a breakout year with Ireland U20s.
- Still on an Ulster Academy contract, he is the son of former Ireland international Andy Ward and brother of Ulster winger Zac.
- Ward says he feels ready for Test rugby and would embrace a debut if selected.
- He credits guidance from Johnny Sexton and back-rows Josh van der Flier, Nick Timoney, Caelan Doris and Jack Conan, underscoring his rapid rise from Ballynahinch’s AIL side.