A "Legends" team will represent Ireland in an over-35s World Cup tournament in Durban, South Africa, next June.

Ireland will be coached by former British and Irish Lion Jeremy Davidson, who is currently director of rugby at Dungannon RFC, while Paul Wallace, another Irish Lion from the 1997 series win in South Africa, will act as manager.

Recent Irish captains Mick Galwey, Paddy Johns and Andy Ward (player-coach) have already confirmed their involvement, as have other former internationals David Corkery, Victor Costello and Tyrone Howe. Ireland play Australia, South Africa and England in the pool stages.

The first round of games takes place on June 20th with Scotland, England, Argentina and New Zealand also confirmed entrants, while there is still a possibility of a Welsh/French "Celtic" team participating.

The Irish Legends are attempting to promote the domestic club game as Davidson explained prior to last nights launch at Coopers restaurant in Dublin: "The plan is to raise the profile of amateur rugby and create investment in the grassroots of the game.

"We also intend to get some fundraising for various charities off the ground by making this an annual or biannual World Cup and possibly a Six Nations competition as well."

The IRFU have yet to lend their support but the Irish players' body (IRUPA), under chief executive Niall Woods, have already backed the venture. For further information log onto www.irishlegendsrugby.ie

Meanwhile, the ERC yesterday charged Italian club Viadana with misconduct arising from the forfeited round six European Challenge Cup Pool One fixture against Northampton Saints.

Viadana twice postponed the fixture on January 20th and 21st due to an unplayable pitch. They opted to award the result to Northampton rather than travel to an alternative venue for a rescheduled match. Further sanctions are expected.

IRISH LEGENDS MEMBERS: Forwards: Peter Clohessey, Paddy Johns, Stephen Ritchie, Rab Irwin, Mat Sexton, Nick Popplewell, Ross Nesdale, Steve Smith, Mick Galwey (capt), Gary Longwell, Gabriel Fulcher, Andy Ward, Eric Miller, Stuart Duncan, Dennis McBride, Nigel Carr, Brian Robson, Victor Costello, Dion O'Cuinneagain. Backs: Andy Matchett, Brian O'Meara, Neil Doak, Derek McAlesse, Eric Elwood, Stan McDowell, Maurice Field, Brendan Mullan, Michael Mullans, Colin Wilkinson, Bill Harbinson, Keith Crossan, Simon Geoghan, Justin Bishop, Conor O'Shea, Simon Mason.