John O’Sullivan provides a preview of today’s match in his recent write-up, emphasizing the need for Leinster, led by Leo Cullen, to exhibit relentlessness, tenacity, and savagery if they are to triumph over a strong Northampton side. He stated that Northampton’s duo previous victories over Munster reflect a mix of both strength and vulnerability; they were admirably resilient and valiant with one player less at Thomond Park, though they showed signs of instability and doubt during substantial parts of the elimination match at Franklin’s Gardens.
Leinster is perceived to be superior by many, and this belief is further backed up by the bookmakers who favour them by a 14-point margin. They also enjoy considerable public support. For them to come out on top, they must display relentlessness, tenacity, and ruthlessness.
Today’s live coverage centres on Leinster’s semi-final match against Northampton in the Champions Cup. Leinster has shown consistent dominance in the URC league stages and the initial stages of the Champions Cup over recent seasons. However, their last Champions Cup success dates back to 2018. While numerous factors could be cited for this, struggling with big games like this is evidence of a significant concern. Confronted with a skilled Northampton team, it’s high time they stepped up. With the unavailable Aviva due to Europa League preparations, what better venue than Croke Park? For the first time in many years, they will be hosting a rugby game. The game, which has been sold out, is set to be significant, kicking off at 5.30pm.
For Leinster, the line-up is as follows: Ciarán Frawley, Jordan Larmour, Robbie Henshaw, Jamie Osborne, James Lowe, Ross Byrne, Jamison Gibson-Park, Andrew Porter, Dan Sheehan, Tadhg Furlong, Ross Molony, Joe McCarthy, Ryan Baird, Josh van der Flier, and Captain Caelan Doris. The substitutes include Rónan Kelleher, Cian Healy, Michael Ala’alatoa, Jason Jenkins, Jack Conan, Luke McGrath, Harry Byrne, and Jimmy O’Brien.
Northampton’s team line-up includes George Furbank, James Ramm, Tommy Freeman, Fraser Dingwall, George Hendy, Fin Smith, and Alex Mitchell. These names feature alongside Alex Waller, Curtis Langdon, Trevor Davison, Alex Moon, Alex Coles, captain Courtney Lawes, Sam Graham, and Juarno Augustus. On the reserve list, are Sam Matavesi, Emmanuel Iyogun, Elliot Millar Mills, Temo Mayanavanua, Angus Scott-Young, Tom James, Tom Litchfield, and Tom Seabrook. Overseeing the game will be referee Mathieu Raynal from France.