The United Rugby Championship is set to ignite with thrilling comebacks and debut sparks! But who will steal the spotlight?
Three Irish stars, Iain Henderson, Nick Timoney, and Jacob Stockdale, are ready to ignite Ulster’s campaign as they return to the starting lineup for their clash with Benetton. Henderson, a seasoned leader, takes the captain’s armband, forming a formidable second-row partnership with Harry Sheridan.
The front row sees Tom Stewart, fresh from captaining Ireland XV to victory over Spain, take the hooker role, alongside Sam Crean and Scott Wilson. South African sensation Juarno Augustus returns from injury to bolster the back row, joined by David McCann and the returning Timoney.
Ulster’s backline boasts the exciting duo of Jude Postlethwaite and James Hume in midfield, with Werner Kok and Rob Baloucoune on the wings. And here’s where it gets controversial: Baloucoune, the hat-trick hero against Emirates Lions, will aim to replicate his international form for Ireland XV on the right wing.
Stockdale, back from international duty, solidifies the full-back position. Dave Shanahan, on the cusp of his 100th cap, provides experience on the bench, alongside Jake Flannery and Stewart Moore.
Meanwhile, Leinster welcomes Josh Ericson, a recent addition to the Leinster Academy, who could make his debut against Dragons. With several Irish internationals rested after the November series, Leinster’s lineup sees Max Deegan lead the charge from number eight, flanked by Alex Soroka and Scott Penny.
Brian Deeny and Diarmuid Mangan lock down the second row, while Jack Boyle and Thomas Clarkson secure the front row with Gus McCarthy at hooker. Fintan Gunne and Harry Byrne form the half-back duo, with Ciarán Frawley and Hugh Cooney in the centre.
On the wings, Joshua Kenny aims to build on his brace against Zebre Parma, with Jordan Larmour on the opposite flank and Jimmy O’Brien at full-back. The bench features the uncapped Ericson, alongside the experienced RG Snyman, who recently reached a milestone 50th international cap for South Africa.
Will Ulster’s returning stars reignite their campaign, or will Leinster’s fresh faces steal the show? The stage is set for a captivating URC encounter. What’s your prediction for this Irish rugby showdown?