Wales arrived in South Africa yesterday buoyed by their victory over Argentina in Buenos Aires at the weekend.
That was the only victory for the northern hemisphere against the south in the eight Tests over the past fortnight and Ruddock believes it’s time to pool their knowledge.
Now he is seeking a meeting with Ireland coach Eddie O’Sullivan, who has just lost a two-Test series to the Springboks, ahead of the clash in Pretoria.
“I’m sure the information they can give us will prove very useful,” said Ruddock.
“I know how friendly and professional Ireland are so I’m hoping to get hold of Eddie before they leave, if I do it will be a real bonus.
“They have already been very accommodating. They are looking to leave the videos and codes that we need to settle in to our progress in what will be a very difficult week because there is so little time available to us.”
Wales arrived with their confidence boosted by last weekend’s 35-20 win that levelled the series but now they face an even tougher test in the South African capital where six years ago they were humiliated 96-13.
Wales have been given a clean bill of health from the Argentine leg of the tour though it has been confirmed that record try scorer Gareth Thomas will not join the squad as hoped following his ankle injury suffered against the Barbarians.
Nevertheless hat-trick hero Shane Williams believes Wales can head for Pretoria in bullish mood.
“It would have been hard to go to South Africa on the back of two defeats,” said Williams.
“It’s still going to be tough, but playing after a big win is a real confidence boost.”
