Flanker Stephen Ferris determined not to rest on his laurels

"While I'm delighted at getting the nod, it is now up to me now to continue the hard work and keep that competition going," said the Ulster flanker.

"Along with winning my first cap, my selection for the World Cup is the high point of my career to date.

"I would never have thought before this season that I'd be in this position."

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Just turned 22 earlier this month, Ferris is youngest player in the Ireland squad and his selection comes quickly on the heels of his international debut against the Pacific Island last November.

"The competition in the Ireland back-row is incredible when you think of the great players that did not make the squad," said Ferris from County Armagh.

"The last 18 months have all been an exciting time for me from playing regularly for Ulster, winning my first cap last November and touring Argentina.

"A World Cup is the pinnacle for international rugby and when I knew I had made the squad, the first person I talked to was my mum.

"Needless to say everyone at home were delighted at the news."