We weren’t expecting this.
With only a week to go until Munster and Leinster take to the field in their mouth-watering clashes against Saracens and Clermont Auvergne, respectively, excitement is growing.
However, there is still the small matter of interprovincial derbies to take care of first.
Generally, a week before a European Cup semi-final, you would expect the teams involved to rest their front liners for the next fixture.
If you take a look at Saracens and Leinster’s starting XVs for their domestic fixtures this weekend, it is clear to see that they have an eye on next week.
TEAM NEWS: @RhysRuddock captains #LeinsterRugby tomorrow at the Sportsground. #CONvLEI #BIGWEEKEND pic.twitter.com/Ee5oZel2ti
— Leinster Rugby (@leinsterrugby) April 14, 2017
As is evident, Tadhg Furlong, Jack McGrath, Devin Toner, Dan Leavy, Jack Conan, Jonathan Sexton, Robbie Henshaw, Garry Ringrose and Isa Nacewa are all absent.
This also applies to Saracens.
Saracens resting Itoje, Mako and Farrell for the Northampton game, with Billy and Ashton semi-rested on bench. Gearing up for Munster.
— Alex Shaw (@alexshawsport) April 14, 2017
Maro Itoje, Mako Vunipola, Billy Vunipola, Owen Farrell and Chris Ashton are all absent for the reigning English and European champions for their clash against Northampton.
Munster on the other hand, have gone for a different tactic for their derby game with Ulster at Thomond Park.
It is pretty much full-strength.
Just look at this team.
Rassie rings the changes for #MUNvULS Captain @peterom6 starts, @iankeatley back from injury on the bench. https://t.co/FDL9UA2JI7 pic.twitter.com/KDnqmAIA5y
— Munster Rugby (@Munsterrugby) April 14, 2017
Besides the injury absences of Conor Murray and CJ Stander, this is pretty close to full-strength from Munster.
Perhaps it is in Rassie Erasmus’ thinking that they want to wrap up a home semi-final so they can fully concentrate on Saracens at the weekend.
Regardless, Munster fans will be hoping that there are no injuries to come out of the clash with Ulster.
Especially to key men like Tyler Bleyendaal.
In more positive news, Ian Keatley returns to the bench after missing the last number of weeks with a troublesome knee injury.
It should be a great occasion nonetheless, especially when you have an Ulster who are desperate for a victory.
