RUGBY:GEORDAN MURPHY passed a fitness test yesterday and will take his position at fullback for Ireland's Six Nations match against England at Twickenham tomorrow.
Murphy had been included in the squad selected on Tuesday but with the provision that he passed the fitness test on his Achilles injury later in the week. Girvan Dempsey had been ruled out with a hip injury. Luke Fitzgerald had been poised to step in on the wing. With Murphy at fullback, Tommy Bowe and Rob Kearney occupy the wing positions with Shane Horgan partnering Andrew Trimble in the centre.
Nikki Walker will miss Scotland's game against Italy after aggravating an ankle injury in training yesterday.
The Scottish Rugby Union said Walker had decided to stand down after consultations with the medical team. His replacement will be announced today.