A towering presence is set to make waves in Leinster's forward pack! Get ready, rugby fans, because some familiar Irish faces are back in action, and a colossal new talent is about to get his second chance to shine.
Ireland internationals Jimmy O’Brien and Robbie Henshaw are returning to the Leinster squad for their upcoming United Rugby Championship clash against Cardiff this Friday night. But the real headline-grabber is the inclusion of Alan Spicer, a gargantuan lock standing at an impressive 6ft 10in and weighing in at a formidable 138kg. This marks his second cap for the province, and it's a moment many have been eagerly anticipating.
Spicer is no stranger to the Leinster system, having been a standout performer for the Ireland U20s. However, he hasn't had a taste of senior Leinster rugby for nearly a year, making his return even more significant. For those keeping track of rugby physiques, Spicer is the same height as the legendary Devin Toner but a good 10kg heavier, solidifying his status as one of the most physically imposing players to emerge from Ireland's professional rugby ranks. He'll be partnering Brian Deeny in the second row, and if that wasn't enough power, the formidable Springbok giant RG Snyman is waiting on the bench to add his immense presence.
Head coach Leo Cullen has opted for six changes to the lineup that previously secured a bonus-point victory over Edinburgh. Leading the charge will be Max Deegan, who is set to captain the team for his 150th appearance for Leinster – a fantastic milestone! He’ll be joined in a strong back row by the in-form Scott Penny, who is just one appearance away from his own century for the province, and James Culhane.
The front row remains a solid unit, with Jerry Cahir and Andrew Sparrow anchoring the scrum alongside hooker John McKee.
In the back three, O’Brien is set to make a significant impact at full-back after recovering from injury. He'll be flanked by wingers Joshua Kenny and Ruben Moloney. Henshaw, also returning from a spell on the sidelines, will form a potent midfield partnership with Rieko Ioane. Guiding the team from fly-half will be Harry Byrne, with Fintan Gunne at scrum-half.
And here's where it gets interesting for national team fans: the return of both Henshaw and O’Brien significantly boosts Andy Farrell's options for Ireland's upcoming game against Wales next week. It's always a good problem to have when key players are in form and available!
The bench also boasts a wealth of experience. Rabah Slimani is back in the matchday 23 for the first time since before the festive period, offering strong front-row cover alongside Gus McCarthy and Alex Usanov. The aforementioned RG Snyman and Josh Ericson provide further forward reinforcements, while Luke McGrath, Charlie Tector, and Andrew Osborne complete the talented squad.
Leinster Team:
15 Jimmy O’Brien; 14 Joshua Kenny, 13 Rieko Ioane, 12 Robbie Henshaw, 11 Ruben Moloney; 10 Harry Byrne, 9 Fintan Gunne; 1 Jerry Cahir, 2 John McKee, 3 Andrew Sparrow; 4 Alan Spicer, 5 Brian Deeny; 6 Max Deegan (capt), 7 Scott Penny, 8 James Culhane.
Replacements: 16 Gus McCarthy, 17 Alex Usanov, 18 Rabah Slimani, 19 RG Snyman, 20 Josh Ericson, 21 Luke McGrath, 22 Charlie Tector, 23 Andrew Osborne.
What do you think about this Leinster lineup? Does the return of O'Brien and Henshaw give them the edge? And what are your expectations for the massive Alan Spicer in his second cap? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below – we'd love to hear if you agree or disagree!
