In the inaugural match of the 2024/25 United Rugby Championship, Jack Conan has been named captain of Leinster against Edinburgh. The team was revealed by Leinster head coach, Leo Cullen, in anticipation of the Friday fixture at 7.35pm. Standout player Cian Healy is expected to equal the record set by Devin Toner of 280 appearances on behalf of the province.
Conan, who plays in the number eight position, will be supported by Max Deegan and Scott Penny as the team’s flankers. The match also features the senior debut of hooker Gus McCarthy, while props Michael Milne and Thomas Clarkson are set to receive their 42nd caps. In the second row, Conor O’Tighearnaigh is paired with James Ryan.
Talk show host Nathan Johns, Gordon D’Arcy, and John O’Sullivan navigate the repercussions of Ireland’s victory over Australia. They also spotlight standout rugby moments from the weekend. Leinster academy’s Charlie Tector will play centre alongside Garry Ringrose. Meanwhile, the wings will be populated by Jordan Larmour and Tommy O’Brien with Jamie Osborne playing fullback.
Scrumhalf features Jamison Gibson-Park, recently recovered from a hamstring injury, with Sam Prendergast in control of kicks, being favoured over Ross Byrne. Newcomer Rabah Slimani, who moved to Leinster from Clermont Auvergne in July, expects to make his debut from the bench.
The full Leinster lineup for the match against Edinburgh in Hive Stadium at 7.35pm on Friday includes: Jamie Osborne, Tommy O’Brien, Garry Ringrose, Charlie Tector, Jordan Larmour, Sam Prendergast, Jamison Gibson-Park, Michael Milne, Gus McCarthy, Thomas Clarkson, Conor O’Tighearnaigh, James Ryan; Max Deegan, Scott Penny, and captain Jack Conan. The reserves are John McKee, Cian Healy, Rabah Slimani, Brian Deeny, James Culhane, Luke McGrath, Ross Byrne, and Rob Russell.