How long have you played for Ireland U20?

Since last year’s Junior World Cup. I played this year’s Six Nations and went to the JWC.

How are JWCs to play in?

Tough physically. Playing games with four or five days off in between means you have to be in top shape going out there and strict with your recovery. Every match is a cup final – if you lose one you could be out of contention for the semis.

What position are you?

I played No 8 for my club and six for the U20s. I played loosehead prop in my first two years of rugby but then had a growth spurt and lost some weight so I couldn’t hold up the scrum. I don’t have any regrets about leaving the front row! The back row gives you more freedom.

When did you first play?

When I was 12, at Clongowes Wood College. I remember watching Dave Kearney in his final year when I was just starting.

What do you do outside of rugby?

I am studying biomedical engineering at UCD. I’m interested in the sports injury side of it and prosthetic limbs.

What are your aims now?

I have just joined the Leinster Academy and I want to progress through the ranks and get a senior opportunity for Ireland.

RW verdict: Chosen to lead Ireland U20 when the captain was injured, Timmins is seen as a great prospect.

This was first published in the September 2014 edition of Rugby World. Click here to see what’s in the mag this month!