Leinster’s Dominance and Munster’s Minimal Representation Spark Debate
The official Ireland squad for the 2026 Six Nations has been revealed, and it’s a clear reflection of Leinster’s dominance. With 25 players in the main squad, including both seasoned veterans and emerging stars, Leinster is by far the most represented province. Meanwhile, Munster fans may feel disappointed, as their contribution has been limited to just six players, despite their rich rugby history. Connacht and Ulster have solid representation, but Leinster’s supremacy is once again the headline story.

Leinster: A Rugby Juggernaut

Leinster leads the charge with 23 players in the main squad and two development players, highlighting their incredible depth and talent pipeline.
• Key Forwards: With experienced names like Andrew Porter (70 caps) and Tadhg Furlong (78 caps) alongside emerging talents such as Jack Boyle and Gus McCarthy, Leinster’s pack is a formidable force.
• Backline Brilliance: The backline features seasoned internationals like Robbie Henshaw (77 caps) and Hugo Keenan (42 caps), while younger stars like Jamie Osborne and Sam Prendergast signal the future of Irish rugby.

Development Players: Hugh Cooney’s inclusion is another nod to Leinster’s ability to nurture young talent.

Munster: Fans May Feel Overlooked

With only six players, Munster’s representation is strikingly low compared to Leinster’s.
• Key Forwards: Tadhg Beirne (56 caps) and Peter O’Mahony (110 caps) carry the hopes of Munster’s pack.
• Backline Leaders: Conor Murray (120 caps) and rising star Jack Crowley (19 caps) are the standouts in a smaller-than-expected contingent.

Munster’s historically passionate fanbase may feel frustrated by this limited inclusion, but their selected players bring significant experience.

Connacht: Quality Over Quantity

Connacht contributes seven players, including two development player, underscoring the province’s growing ability to produce international talent.
• Star Forwards: Finlay Bealham (46 caps) and Cian Prendergast (4 caps) anchor Connacht’s forward contributions.
• Backline Depth: Bundee Aki (60 caps) remains a key leader, with Mack Hansen (25 caps) continuing to impress on the wing. Caolin Blade offers scrum-half depth, while Cathal Forde is a promising development player.

Ulster: Steady Contributions

Ulster’s contingent of five players, plus one development player, brings a balance of experience and potential.
• Experienced Forwards: Iain Henderson (84 caps) and Rob Herring (42 caps) provide leadership in the pack.
• Promising Talent: Cormac Izuchukwu (1 cap) and development player James McNabney showcase Ulster’s emerging talent.

Leinster’s Supremacy and the Road Ahead

Leinster’s 25 players dominate the squad, showcasing their unparalleled production of rugby talent. This trend reflects not only their success at provincial level but also the strength of their academy system. However, with Munster’s reduced representation, this selection could spark debate among fans and pundits alike.

Leinster

Forwards (12):
•Ryan Baird (23)
•Jack Boyle
•Thomas Clarkson (2)
•Jack Conan (46)
•Caelan Doris (captain) (47)
•Tadhg Furlong (78)
•Cian Healy (134)
•Rónan Kelleher (37)
•Gus McCarthy (2)
•Joe McCarthy (16)
•Andrew Porter (70)
•James Ryan (67)

Backs (11):
•Ciaran Frawley (8)
•Jamison Gibson-Park (38)
•Robbie Henshaw (77)
•Hugo Keenan (42)
•James Lowe (36)
•Jimmy O’Brien (8)
•Jamie Osborne (5)
•Sam Prendergast (3)
•Garry Ringrose (63)

Development Players (1):
•Hugh Cooney

Munster

Forwards (2):
•Tadhg Beirne (56)
•Peter O’Mahony (110)

Backs (4):
•Jack Crowley (19)
•Conor Murray (120)
•Calvin Nash (8)

Connacht

Forwards (2):
•Finlay Bealham (46)
•Cian Prendergast (4)

Backs (5):
•Bundee Aki (60)
•Caolin Blade (3)
•Mack Hansen (25)

Development Players (2):
•Cathal Forde
• Ben Murphy

Ulster

Forwards (4):
•Iain Henderson (84)
•Rob Herring (42)
•Cormac Izuchukwu (1)

Development Players (1):
•James McNabney

The post Ireland’s Six Nations Squad 2025: A Provincial Breakdown appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

Mack Hansen has apologised following the sanctions imposed by an Independent Disciplinary Panel after his critical comments about match officiating in Connacht’s recent game against Leinster. The Connacht and Ireland star received a six-week ban, with three weeks suspended, and will miss three upcoming fixtures.

In a heartfelt statement, Hansen acknowledged his error and expressed regret for his remarks:

“People know I always wear my heart on my sleeve. However, after the Leinster game, on this occasion, I let my emotions get the better of me.

Upon reflection, my comments to the media were ill-advised, and fell far short of the standards I expect of myself, and what the sport expects of its players.

I want to offer an apology to the match officials for any distress my comments may have caused. Our games are built on mutual respect, and I didn’t show that after the game.

I also want to apologise to the URC, and I fully accept the findings of the independent disciplinary panel.

I love Connacht, and I love rugby. Moving forward, I will channel all my energy and passion into representing my province and country to the absolute best of my ability – both on and off the field.”

The disciplinary panel, which considered Hansen’s remorse and apology, also imposed conditions such as completing an officiating education course and issuing a formal apology to referee Chris Busby. Connacht Rugby has been tasked with running media conduct training for players.

Hansen will miss Connacht’s upcoming games against Lyon, Cardiff, and Glasgow. The province has declined to comment further.

The incident has highlighted the importance of upholding rugby’s values of respect and professionalism, a sentiment Hansen’s apology appears to endorse as he looks to move forward from this controversy.

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Ronan O’Gara has admitted that his La Rochelle side is “suffering” and “in pain” as they prepare to face Leinster in the Champions Cup this weekend. Despite achieving their 100th successive sell-out at the Stade Marcel-Deflandre, La Rochelle’s 22-19 win against a second-string Toulouse side last Saturday highlighted deeper issues within the team.

The match, decided by a last-minute penalty from Antoine Hastoy, left little room for celebration. O’Gara conceded the performance could serve as a “wake-up call” with the team’s European ambitions on the line over the next fortnight.

Leinster arrive with momentum, aiming for back-to-back wins against their French rivals. They decisively ended La Rochelle’s European title hopes with a 40-13 victory in last season’s quarter-finals. Speaking at a post-match press conference, O’Gara offered a candid reflection on his team’s struggles.

“We Are Suffering”

“We will appreciate the four points,” O’Gara said of the Toulouse match. “But right now, it’s… it’s… like a defeat! It’s hard, right now. We need to change something. If I knew what, I would have done it already. We are suffering, our game is suffering.”

He continued, “We are not taking pleasure. But it can change. Everyone is negative, but it happens because success creates a lot of problems. And success is really in the past. We must stop talking about success. Real competitors stay united and work harder. That’s my goal.”

O’Gara took responsibility for turning the team’s fortunes around: “I’m the leader. And we will start that on Monday, Tuesday. Despite everything, we are in the top six in the standings. When we are able to string together a few phases, we will be interesting. It’s up to us to turn the wheel.”

Facing Leinster: A Critical Test

Looking ahead to Leinster, O’Gara acknowledged the urgency of improvement. “Leinster arrives on Sunday. Maybe this is the wake-up call we need. I’m not going to lose confidence in my players. It’s a difficult time, but in English, we say ‘when it rains, it pours.’ That’s how it is right now.”

Reflecting on his own mindset, O’Gara added: “Since my time at Crusaders, I see the glass half full now. But, at the moment, everyone, and me too in recent months, has seen the team half empty.”

A Demand for More

When asked whether his message was still resonating with his players, O’Gara admitted: “No, I think maybe it wasn’t a good message… The players and I have to give more. That’s the goal for this week. Maybe it won’t work, in four weeks or in four months. But the goal in life is to try.”

A key moment in Saturday’s win came after Valentin Delpy’s late dropped goal seemed to secure a draw for Toulouse. O’Gara praised his team’s resolve in the final stages. “What’s good is that when it’s super hard, they have the ability to hold the ball, to advance, to win a penalty,” he said. “Antoine was in pain; he continued to work and received the biggest reward with a difficult penalty in injury time.”

Fitness Questions and a Negative Atmosphere

O’Gara dismissed claims that the team’s fitness was an issue, saying: “No, I don’t think so, because we are much more ‘fit’ than last year. It’s another negative rumour that, like the others, is everywhere in La Rochelle at the moment. It’s normal—it’s a difficult period.”

He emphasised the need to move on from past success: “We need to work hard, to rework and to forget the past. We need to find a recipe to go for Le Bouclier (the Top 14 title), which the club has never done. But we need to change the atmosphere. The atmosphere is negative everywhere.”

A Determined Outlook

Despite the challenges, O’Gara remains confident in his team’s ability to turn things around. “I remember one Sunday morning when I was last in the championship. If La Rochelle is last, that bothers me, but we are… I’m not going to avoid the tough questions because we’re in a tough situation. But we are alive, life is beautiful, we will react.”

As Leinster loom large, the pressure is on for La Rochelle to rediscover their form and prove their mettle in Europe once again.

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As rugby fans usher in 2025, Ireland’s fly-half scene is buzzing with talent. With Johnny Sexton’s departure from the international stage, the number ten jersey has become one of the most hotly contested in Irish rugby. From seasoned veterans to emerging prodigies, the competition is fierce, and the depth is deeper than ever. Here’s a look at the top ten Irish fly-halves currently lighting up the game.

1. Sam Prendergast (Leinster/Ireland)

Sam Prendergast has entered 2025 as one of the most exciting prospects in world rugby. His performances for Leinster this season, combined with his maturity beyond his years, have made him a standout candidate for Ireland’s long-term fly-half solution. Prendergast’s pinpoint kicking and calm decision-making have solidified his role as a key player for both club and country.

2. Jack Crowley (Munster/Ireland)

Munster’s Jack Crowley continues to prove why he’s considered one of the brightest stars in Irish rugby. His ability to control games with his tactical nous and creativity was key to Munster’s resurgence in 2024. Crowley’s growing influence in the Ireland set-up has also been evident, with Andy Farrell entrusting him in high-pressure scenarios.

3. Ross Byrne (Leinster/Ireland)

Ross Byrne’s consistency and experience remain invaluable to Leinster and Ireland. While he may not possess the flair of some of his younger counterparts, Byrne’s ability to guide his team through tough situations is unparalleled. His tactical kicking and game management make him a steady and reliable presence at number ten.

4. Ciarán Frawley (Leinster)

Versatility is Ciarán Frawley’s hallmark, but his performances at fly-half have reminded fans of his natural talent in the position. Whether slotting in as a playmaker at 12 or taking the reins at 10, Frawley offers Leinster a calm and composed option who can deliver under pressure. While injuries have limited his international exposure, his club form speaks for itself.

5. Harry Byrne (Leinster/Bristol Bears)

Harry Byrne has had a strong start to his time with Bristol, showcasing his creativity and flair for the attacking game. Injuries have been a challenge for the younger Byrne, but when fully fit, his ability to unlock defences makes him one of the most exciting fly-halves in the country.

6. Jack Carty (Connacht)

Connacht’s Jack Carty remains a pivotal figure for his province. His leadership and creativity continue to shine, particularly in tight encounters where his experience is crucial. While he remains on the fringes of the Ireland squad, his performances for Connacht underline his quality as one of the most dependable number tens in the game.

7. Billy Burns (Ulster)

Billy Burns has been a steady presence for Ulster, delivering consistent performances in the United Rugby Championship (URC). His ability to marshal a backline and distribute effectively keeps him in contention as a valuable provincial operator. Burns’ experience is a cornerstone of Ulster’s attacking play.

8. JJ Hanrahan (Connacht)

Now with the Connacht, JJ Hanrahan continues to show his value as a seasoned playmaker. His sharp attacking instincts and ability to execute under pressure have made him a fan favourite in Newport. While his Ireland days may be behind him, his influence in the URC remains significant. He has been off with injury for last year

9. Billy Burns

10. Sean Naughton (Connacht)

Sean Naughton, a rising star in the All-Ireland League, has turned heads with his dazzling performances over the past year. While he’s yet to make the leap to professional rugby, his ability to read the game and execute under pressure marks him as one for the future. Expect him to make waves in 2025.

Conclusion

As 2025 begins, Ireland boasts an enviable depth of talent in the number ten position. With Sam Prendergast and Jack Crowley leading the charge, supported by experienced campaigners like Ross Byrne and Jack Carty, the fly-half role is in good hands. This wealth of options provides Andy Farrell and provincial coaches with the tools to tackle the challenges of the year ahead. For Irish rugby fans, the future looks bright as these playmakers continue to evolve and inspire.

The post List of Top 10 at Number 10: Irish Rugby Players at Out-Half appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

The stage is set for a thrilling interprovincial derby as Ulster host Munster at Kingspan Stadium this Friday evening. This highly anticipated BKT United Rugby Championship (URC) clash will kick off at 7:35pm, with live coverage available on TG4 and Premier Sports.

Both teams come into the game with points to prove, making this encounter a must-watch for rugby fans. Ulster will look to bounce back from their recent defeat in the Investec Champions Cup, while Munster are eager to gain momentum following a tough loss to Castres in France.

Ulster Team News

Ulster fans will be delighted to see the return of star scrum-half John Cooney, who has recovered from a hamstring injury to start. Meanwhile, there is excitement surrounding Academy fly-half Jack Murphy, who could make his senior debut from the bench.

Ulster’s pack sees a change in the front row, with Andrew Warwick stepping in at loosehead prop alongside Rob Herring and Tom O’Toole. The second-row partnership of Alan O’Connor (captain) and Kieran Treadwell remains unchanged.

In the back row, Ulster have made two adjustments, bringing in flankers James McNabney (blindside) and Marcus Rea (openside), while David McCann retains the No.8 jersey.

The backline boasts continuity in the centres, with Stuart McCloskey and Jude Postlethwaite forming a strong midfield pairing. Out wide, Zac Ward earns his first URC start on the left wing after making his debut last weekend. Werner Kok, who scored his first try at Kingspan last week, takes the right wing, and Michael Lowry continues at full-back.

Munster Team News

Munster have made six changes to their starting XV from last week’s defeat in Castres. Shane Daly and Paddy Patterson are notable inclusions in the backline, while the forward pack sees the return of John Ryan, Tom Ahern, and captain Jack O’Donoghue.

The Munster back three features Mike Haley, Calvin Nash, and Shane Daly, with Alex Nankivell and Tom Farrell continuing their partnership in the centres. Half-backs Paddy Patterson and Jack Crowley will be pivotal in orchestrating play.

Up front, John Ryan starts at loosehead prop, alongside Niall Scannell and Stephen Archer. The second-row pairing of Tom Ahern and Fineen Wycherley will aim to disrupt Ulster’s lineout, while the back row of Jack O’Donoghue, John Hodnett, and Gavin Coombes adds power and experience.

Key Match Facts
• Kick-Off Time: 7:35pm
• Venue: Kingspan Stadium, Belfast
• Live Coverage: TG4 & Premier Sports

Both sides have injury concerns, with Munster missing Peter O’Mahony (calf) and Diarmuid Barron (shoulder). Additionally, Tadhg Beirne is unavailable due to IRFU player management guidelines.

Tickets and Viewing Options

Limited tickets are still available for this unmissable derby at ulster.rugby/buytickets. For those who can’t make it to the stadium, tune in to TG4 or Premier Sports for live coverage.

What’s at Stake?

With both teams looking to climb the URC standings, this game carries significant importance. Ulster will rely on home advantage and the return of key players like Cooney, while Munster’s blend of youth and experience will test their resilience.

Don’t miss a moment of this classic interprovincial battle. Set your reminders for 7:35pm this Friday and enjoy live coverage on TG4!

#URC #UlsterRugby #MunsterRugby #TG4 #InterproDerby

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Leinster Rugby’s head coach Jacques Nienaber, a World Cup winner with South Africa, has described the current campaign as a once-in-a-lifetime experience for the Irish provincial giants. With record-breaking crowds, new challenges, and flawless performances on the pitch, this season has already become one for the history books.

A Season of Transition and Opportunity

The redevelopment of Leinster’s traditional home at the RDS has pushed the team to adopt Dublin’s iconic Aviva Stadium as their temporary base. Far from a setback, the move has provided an incredible platform for the team and its supporters.

Leinster’s three matches at the Aviva so far this season have drawn impressive crowds of 18,397 (Dragons RFC), 20,945 (Emirates Lions), and 34,184 (Clermont Auvergne), averaging 24,509 fans per game. Additionally, their clash with Munster at Croke Park in October smashed records, attracting 80,468 spectators — the highest-ever attendance for a BKT United Rugby Championship match.

Nienaber is embracing the unique circumstances.

“This is a season like no other,” he said. “Some of our players may never have had the chance to play at Croke Park against Munster or regularly compete at the Aviva. These are sacred grounds, and it’s an incredible privilege for all of us.”

Perfect Start to the Campaign

Leinster’s performances on the pitch have been equally remarkable. They are undefeated in nine matches across all competitions and sit atop the BKT URC table with a seven-point lead heading into their Round 8 showdown against an in-form Connacht Rugby this Saturday.

Nienaber acknowledges the challenge posed by Connacht but is confident in his team’s preparation.

“They’ve had two fantastic wins in Europe, and they’ll be full of confidence. It’s going to be a tough game, and we’re preparing for a real grind. We never take games like these for granted.”

A Defence Coach’s Perspective on Success

Known for his defensive acumen, Nienaber stresses the importance of consistent preparation and respect for every opponent, regardless of the occasion.

“Our preparation for Connacht won’t differ from how we approached Clermont, Bristol, or the Champions Cup final against Toulouse last season. Respect for the opposition and meticulous preparation are non-negotiables.”

Leinster’s success has made them the team to beat, but Nienaber cautions against complacency.

“In professional sport, you are always the hare being chased. Teams will catch up if you don’t evolve your leadership, playing style, and creativity. Winning isn’t guaranteed, and it’s vital to cherish every victory.”

Fans Driving the Momentum

The Aviva Stadium is set to host another massive crowd this weekend for the interprovincial derby against Connacht. Leinster’s supporters have played a vital role in this extraordinary season, and their enthusiasm continues to fuel the team’s momentum.

“The fans’ passion is unmatched,” Nienaber said. “This weekend could see an even bigger crowd than we had for Clermont, which speaks volumes about how much this derby means to everyone.”

Looking Ahead to Even Greater Heights

As Leinster strives for continued success on two fronts — the BKT URC and the Champions Cup — Nienaber’s focus remains on preparation, evolution, and savouring every moment.

“Victories should never be taken for granted. There will come a time when wins are harder to come by, and we’ll wish we had celebrated them more. For now, we’re fully committed to making the most of this special season.”

Conclusion: Leinster’s Unstoppable Journey

Leinster Rugby is navigating uncharted waters this season, from record attendances to unbeaten form. Under Jacques Nienaber’s leadership, the team is thriving in an environment full of challenges and opportunities. As they prepare for yet another electrifying clash, Leinster’s players, coaches, and fans are united in their pursuit of excellence, making this a truly unforgettable chapter in their storied history.

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As the Champions and Challenge Cups progress, a striking statistic has emerged: only 57% of seats across all matches were filled. With official attendance figures coming from EPCR reports and stadium capacities outlined in the tournament guide, the disparity in fan turnout offers both insights and concerns. Which teams managed to draw fans in droves, and where did supporters stay home?

England: Uneven Support Across Clubs

English clubs showed significant variation in attendance figures. The highlight was Bath, which filled 97% of its stadium, and Exeter, which came close at 92%. These performances stand out as examples of strong local support, fueled perhaps by their historic rugby traditions and recent successes.

Leicester Tigers managed a respectable 66%, hosting 17,186 fans—a testament to the club’s enduring popularity. Meanwhile, Northampton (84%) and Saracens (87%) also performed above average, showing loyal fan bases willing to turn up in solid numbers.

However, it wasn’t all positive. Sale Sharks drew just over half of their stadium’s capacity at 6,072 fans (51%), and Gloucester’s 60% turnout leaves room for improvement. Newcastle Falcons had the worst showing in England, with a mere 2,801 attendees filling just 27% of their ground.

France: A Tale of Two Tiers

French rugby delivered the most packed stands, with Toulouse and La Rochelle achieving 100% capacity. Bordeaux Bègles (95%) and Vannes (100%) also demonstrated remarkable attendance, cementing France’s reputation as a rugby-obsessed nation.

Clermont and Toulon maintained strong showings at 76% and 82%, respectively, while Lyon’s 79% was solid. In contrast, Stade Français saw just 58% of seats filled, a surprising figure for a Paris-based club with significant history. Racing 92 fared even worse, drawing just 5,497 fans to their home-away-from-home venue (45%), showcasing the risks of taking games to less traditional grounds.

Lower-tier French teams like Pau (58%) and Perpignan (56%) highlighted the challenges of consistent fan engagement, while Bayonne’s 72% offered a glimmer of hope in the Challenge Cup.

URC: Mixed Results from Ireland to South Africa

Irish teams led the way in attendance within the URC. Leinster hosted the largest crowd with 34,184 fans filling 66% of their capacity. Munster followed closely with 17,241 fans (66%), and Ulster came in at 64%. Glasgow (94%) and Benetton (93%) also recorded impressive figures, showing strong local support despite their smaller venues.

The South African contingent struggled. The Bulls managed only 13,549 fans (26%), while the Sharks attracted a meager 10,452 (23%). Lions were bottom of the pack with just 2,042 attendees (3%), an alarming statistic that raises questions about the viability of South African teams in European competitions.

The Welsh regions painted a similarly bleak picture, with Scarlets at 41%, Cardiff at 42%, and Dragons at 47%. Connacht, meanwhile, had the lowest turnout of any Irish side, with just 2,672 fans (33%) attending their Challenge Cup fixture.

Where Do We Go From Here?

The overarching takeaway is clear: attendance figures are a mixed bag, and several clubs face challenges in filling their stadiums. For some, resizing venues to better align with demand could enhance the matchday atmosphere and reduce costs. Alternatively, better marketing strategies, targeted promotions, and fan engagement could bridge the gap in less-supported regions.

Key Observations:

1.English Consistency but Room to Grow: Traditional rugby powerhouses in England continue to draw strong support, but teams like Newcastle and Sale highlight the difficulty of engaging fans in smaller markets.

2.French Dominance: France continues to lead in attendance, but disparities exist between top-tier clubs and their lower-tier counterparts.

3.URC Challenges: Ireland delivers solid attendance figures, but South Africa and Wales must address fan disengagement urgently.

The 57% overall attendance rate reveals a clear message: while European rugby’s premier competitions remain prestigious, a unified strategy to boost fan engagement across clubs and countries is essential. For clubs with consistently low figures, it might be time to rethink their approach—or their stadium size.

As the tournament progresses, the EPCR will likely keep a keen eye on these trends, hoping to turn empty seats into sold-out crowds in the future.

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As the BKT United Rugby Championship heats up, two mouthwatering Irish provincial derbies are set to take place this weekend. Ulster host Munster on Friday, while Leinster welcome Connacht to the Aviva Stadium on Saturday. Here’s a detailed preview of both games, including key stats, injury news, and predictions.

Ulster v Munster Preview

Date & Time: Friday, 7:35 PM | Channel: TG4

Ulster Rugby are looking to bounce back after two consecutive losses in the BKT URC. Despite their recent struggles, Ulster haven’t lost three home games in succession at Kingspan Stadium since 2009.

Munster, on the other hand, snapped a three-game losing streak with a victory over the Lions. However, their away form has been dismal this season, with five losses in five games. Their last away victory against an Irish province came in the 2023 semi-final, where they edged out Leinster 16-15.

Key Stats:

•The last six meetings between Ulster and Munster have been evenly split (3-3).

•Munster have won two of their last four visits to Kingspan Stadium.

•Both teams face significant injury issues, making team announcements critical.

Prediction:

The handicap is Ulster -2, highlighting how tight this game is expected to be. Munster -11 at 5/1 could be worth a gamble but is far from a sure thing.

Leinster v Connacht Preview

Date & Time: Saturday, 5:30 PM | Channel: RTE2

Leinster remain the team to beat this season, having won all nine games in all competitions. Their dominance at the Aviva Stadium is notable, with eight straight wins since their narrow 27-26 loss to La Rochelle in the 2023 EPCR Champions Cup final. Leinster’s last defeat to an Irish province came against Ulster in May (23-21).

Connacht arrive in Dublin with mixed form. While they have lost just once in their last four fixtures (a 28-14 defeat to the Bulls), their away record remains a concern. Connacht have managed just one road win in the URC since April, beating the Scarlets 24-23 in Round 3.

Key Stats:

•Leinster have won the last 10 meetings against Connacht, who last defeated them at the RDS in January 2021.

•Connacht haven’t beaten Leinster at the Aviva Stadium since 1985.

•Leinster are missing 10 players through injury, while Connacht have just four sidelined.

What to Watch:

If Connacht can bring back key players like Bundee Aki, Mack Hansen, Finlay Bealham, and Josh Ioane, they could challenge Leinster. However, if Leinster field a full-strength team, the game could be out of reach by halftime.

Prediction:

Leinster are -16 on the handicap, but this could be a tough ask if their key players are rested. Connacht at 7/1 might be worth a small punt for those seeking value.

Conclusion

Both derbies promise high stakes, with Ulster and Munster battling for consistency while Leinster look to maintain their unbeaten run against a resilient Connacht side. Injury lists and team selections will play a major role, so all eyes will be on the starting lineups ahead of these must-watch clashes.

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But, these events do more than entertain fans; they also significantly boost the economy. With the tonybet sportsbook, you can use this information to place your most informed wagers on the biggest online platform there is!

Tourism Gets a Big Boost

One of the biggest ways rugby helps the economy is through tourism, as when the country hosts a major match or contest, thousands of fans travel there. People come from England, France, Scotland, and Wales, and book hotels, eat at restaurants, and visit local attractions. All of this spending adds up.

During the Six Nations, matches bring in millions of euros, as crowds fill the streets before and after games. They spend money on food, drinks, and transportation. The same is true when Ireland hosts international matches.

Jobs and Local Businesses Benefit

Rugby events also create jobs, as workers are needed to set up stadiums, manage crowds, and sell food and drinks. Local businesses see an increase in customers as well, and pubs and restaurants near the Aviva Stadium in Dublin report record sales on match days. Shops selling merchandise also enjoy a spike in business.

Temporary jobs created by these events may seem small, but they add up. The extra income helps local workers and business owners, who then spend more in the community.

Stadiums and Infrastructure

Larger tournaments often lead to upgrades in infrastructure. Stadiums like the Aviva need to be in top shape to host international events. Money spent on improvements benefits construction companies and local suppliers. These upgrades also leave a lasting legacy as once improved, they can host other events, from concerts to non-sporting gatherings, boosting the economy further.

Media and Advertising

The media coverage is another source of economic impact, as millions of people around the world watch these matches. This attention is valuable for advertisers, sponsors, and companies to get a chance to showcase their brands to an international audience.

The exposure also promotes Ireland as a destination. During broadcast segments, viewers see the country’s beautiful landscapes and lively cities, which acts as advertising that helps attract future tourists, even after the games end.

Grassroots Community

Major tournaments also support the growth of rugby at the local level. Part of the revenue from these events often goes back into the sport. This funding helps train young players, build better facilities, and organize local competitions.

When young people get involved in it, it strengthens communities. It also creates long-term benefits for the economy, as some of these partakers may go on to play professionally, contributing to Ireland’s success on the world stage.

Challenges and Costs

While the benefits are clear, hosting such major events also comes with challenges. Organization can be expensive. Security, transportation, and event management require significant investment. If not managed well, these costs can outweigh the benefits.

There’s also the issue of overcrowding in cities like Dublin. A sudden influx of visitors can strain public transport and local services. These issues need careful planning to ensure the events run smoothly.

Long-Term Gains

Despite the challenges, the long-term gains are undeniable, as they inspire a love for the sport, which keeps the cycle of economic benefits going.

Ireland’s reputation as a rugby powerhouse draws fans and tourists year after year, and the economic ripple effects extend far beyond the match days. For example, fans who visit for a game often return later to explore more of the country.

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In a game where the home side claimed a five-try bonus point victory, the most talked about incidents in this game will be four minutes of Stade Francais madness in the second half.

The visitors’ ill discipline saw two of their players, Pierre-Henri Azagoh and Baptiste Pesenti, red carded four foul play. Azagoh’s high and dangerous tackle on Peter O’Mahony meant the second row had to take an early shower.

Incredibly, his second row companion Pesenti followed him to the dressing room four minutes later. The big lock picked Munster’s Craig Casey up before dropping him dangerously on the ground.

First Half

Munster and Stade Francais entered this evening’s game with similar recent records in their domestic championships, with just two wins each in their last five games.

Munster won their second URC game of the season with a 17-10 victory over Lions last weekend, while Stade Francais lost 13-21 to Bayonne in their Top14 game last weekend.

In an opening half where Munster dominated on the scoreboard, the men in red ended the first half with a 14-0 lead over the Parisian side.

Abrahams opens scoring

Thaakir Abrahams put the home side on the scoreboard when crossing for a try on 15 minutes. A successful Jack Crowley kick for the posts, the first of two during the game’s opening 40 minutes, gave Inter Head Coach Ian Costello’s team a 7-0 advantage.

Alex Nankivell was sin-binned on 26 minutes for leading with his elbow. Ironically, it was during this 10 minute period, with Munster down to 14 men, that the side doubled their scoring.

Daly scores on 100th appearance

A beautiful piece of individual brilliance from Shane Daly on his 100th appearance for the province saw him kick the ball forward and chase it down to claim the 25th seven-pointer of his Munster career. The second successful kick of the night from Jack Crowley moved the home side into a 14-0 at half-time.

Half-time: Munster Rugby 14  Stade Francais Paris 0

Pierre-Henri Azagoh was red carded for foul play on Munster’s Peter O’Mahony on 49 minutes. The hosts immediately made their visitors pay for the infringement as Alex Klendellen crashed over for his side’s third try of the game. Jack Crowley maintained his excellent kicking record by adding another conversion.

Shortly afterwards, Baptiste Pesenti picked Craig Casey up and dumped him into the ground. Referee Luke Pearce had no hesitation in producing another red card, the second in four minutes, and reduced Stade Francais to 13 men.

Try for Farrell

Centre Tom Farrell soon added Munster’s fourth try of the evening, and with Crowley kicking successfully again, in difficult windy conditions, Munster were 28-0 with 55 minutes played.

Stade Francais finally got on the scoreboard after 59 minutes when front row Clement Castets touched down. An excellent conversion effort from Zack Henry was successful, leaving Munster with a 28-7 advantage.

Gavin Coombes completing the Munster scoring by claiming his 47th try for the province, as Jack Crowley missed his only kick of the night.

Munster ran out 33-7 winners over 13-man Stade Francais to claim an opening night Investec Champions Cup win.

Munster will travel to Castres Olympique next for their Friday evening Investec Champions Cup second round tie, while Stade Francais will host Saracens tomorrow week.

Full-time: Munster Rugby 33  Stade Francais Paris 7

Munster:

15 Shane Daly, 14  Calvin Nash, 13 Tom Farrell, 12 Alex Nankivell, 11 Thaakir Abrahams, 10 Jack Crowley, 9 Craig Casey.

1 Dian Bleuler, 2 Diarmuid Barron (captain), 3 John Ryan, 4 Evan O’Connell, 5 Fineen Wycherley, 6 Peter O’Mahony, 7 Alex Kendellen, 8 Gavin Coombes.

Munster Replacements:

16 Niall Scannell, 17 Kieran Ryan, 18 Stephen Archer, 19 Tadhg Beirne, 20 John Hodnett, 21 Paddy Patterson, 22 Billy Burns, 23 Jack O’Donoghue.

Stade Francais:

15 Joe Jonas, 14 Charles Laloi, 13 Joe Marchant, 12 Pierre Boudehent, 11 Samuel Ezeala, 10 Zack Henry, 9 Thibaut Motassi.

1 Clement Castets, 2 Lucas Peyresblanques, 3 Francisco Gomez Kodela, 4 Pierre-Henri Azagoh, 5 Baptiste Pesenti, 6 Pierre Huguet, 7 Ryan Chapuis (captain), 8 Yoan Tanga.

Stade Francais Replacements:

16 Luka Petriashvili, 17 Moses Alo-Emile, 18 Paul Alo-Emile, 19 Setareki Turagacoke, 20 Andy Timo, 21 Juan Martin Scelzo, 22 Louis Foursans-Bourdette, 23 Louis Carbonel.

Referee: Luke Pearce (RFU)

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