Eric Miller's short-term and longer-term prospects became clearer over the weekend, albeit with mixed results. A scan on his troublesome ankle ligament injury has revealed the need for an operation, and hence an estimated 10 weeks on the sideline, while, for next season, the Terenure number eight has committed himself to Ulster.

Miller's ankle ligament complaint dates back to a Leinster Senior Schools' Cup semi-final for Wesley College five years ago and flared up again in Murrayfield. At least his contractual commitments to the IRFU allow him to have an operation as soon as possible - unlike say, the Saracens-based Paul Wallace, who struggles on weekly with a groin problem - although the estimated 10 weeks' absence jeopardises Miller's place on the Australian tour.

The squad for that fourmatch, two-Test tour leaves in exactly eight weeks. Malcolm O'Kelly and David Humphreys are others who may be struggling to complete their recovery from long-term shoulder and finger injuries in time for the start of that tour, although the likelihood is that all will be taken along.

As regards Miller's decision to continue his commitment to the European Cup champions next season, that will be especially disappointing news for Leinster. Miller could have selfishly opted to return to his native province and possibly push Victor Costello to number six or to the bench, but instead has remained loyal to the province who facilitated his return this season and included him for the final interprovincial game at home to Connacht.

This decision will also please the Irish management, as it will mean that Miller and Costello will not be keeping each other out of the provincial frame.

Paul Drew of Blackrock College has been chosen to fill the vacancy at full back on the Bank of Ireland Irish schools' team to play their English counterparts at Musgrave Park next Saturday.

There are also two changes in the replacements, where Scott Young (Campbell College) and John McGovern (Blackrock College) replaced the injured duo of Donal Crotty (Belvedere) and Gary Brown (Armagh Royal).

The vote of no-confidence in the English Rugby Football Union's management board will take place at Twickenham on Sunday, June 6th.

Former England skipper Fran Cotton, president of the Reform Group, is opposed to the influence senior clubs are exerting over the RFU and is the man behind the no-confidence call.

A total of 102 requisitions were received backing Cotton's call.