Leinster will face La Rochelle in a crucial Champions Cup match on Saturday at the Aviva Stadium. This encounter is a repeat of the European finals from 2022 and 2023.
Leinster Team Changes and Challenges
Leinster arrives at this fixture having secured seven consecutive victories across all competitions. However, they will encounter significant challenges due to injuries. Ireland’s top props, Andrew Porter and Tadhg Furlong, are unavailable for this crucial match.
Strategic Line-Up Adjustments
In the absence of Porter and Furlong, Paddy McCarthy and Thomas Clarkson will fill the loose head and tight head prop positions, respectively. The team will also miss several key players, including:
- James Lowe
- Garry Ringrose
- RG Snyman
Newly recruited wing Joshua Kenny, who joined the squad just last week, will continue at number 11. Additionally, Jamison Gibson-Park, Ciaran Frawley, Rieko Ioane, and Tommy O’Brien are retained after a strong performance against Connacht.
Reinforcements From Within
Despite the injury setbacks, head coach Leo Cullen retains a robust squad, all of whom have represented Ireland. Dan Sheehan will start as hooker, flanked by McCarthy and Clarkson in the front row. The second row features Joe McCarthy and James Ryan, while Jack Conan, Josh van der Flier, and captain Caelan Doris complete the loose forward trio.
Upcoming Matches for Other Irish Teams
Meanwhile, Munster has made strategic changes ahead of their match against Toulon on Sunday. Four Irish internationals have been brought back into the squad, signaling their focus on securing a victory.
As the Champions Cup unfolds, eyes will be on both Leinster and Munster as they strive to maintain their competitive advantages against strong European sides.
