Leinster Prepare For Champions’ Clash
The Leinster squad stepped up their preparations with a training session in UCD on Monday ahead of their RaboDirect PRO12 derby match against Munster at the Aviva Stadium on Friday (kick-off 8pm).
Aside from the usual bumps and bruises from last Friday’s 36-28 victory over Edinburgh at Murrayfield, the Leinster management reported no fresh injury concerns.
There is a strong possibility that more Ireland internationals will make their return to the squad for the first time this season after their involvement in the Rugby World Cup.
In addition, Isa Nacewa, who was rested for the game in Scotland, is also expected to return to the panel.
Another returning player Jonathan Sexton, who was withdrawn in the 80th minute in Edinburgh as a precaution with minor cramp, kicked 23 points in his first appearance of the season for the province.
The match also marked number 8 Leo Auva’a’s first senior try in Leinster colours.
Mike Ross’ appearance in the Scottish capital was his 49th for the province in both league and Heineken Cup competitions, while in a further boost Rob Kearney successfully came through his first game for Leinster in a little over a year.
Meanwhile, there are over 41,500 tickets now sold for Friday’s clash with Munster which will mark Leinster’s fifth outing at the Aviva Stadium.
Tickets are still available to purchase online here, and they can also be bought at the Leinster Rugby Store (Donnybrook), Spar (Donnybrook) and Ticketmaster outlets nationwide.