The Pro12 season really starts here.
There have been some great games and promising team and individual performances in the Guinness Pro12 so far but for many in Ireland this weekend is the one where the season really kicks off.
On Friday night Ulster take their 100% record to the Sportsground to face reigning champions Connacht. Pat Lam’s men desperately need a big performance and a big result after a hugely disappointing start to the season.
But a victory over the Pro12 leaders would get their campaign back on track.
And on Saturday we are treated to one of the highlights of his or any other season: Leinster v Munster at the Aviva.
Arguably the biggest news from an Irish perspective is that Robbie Henshaw will make his Leinster debut following his summer move from Connacht.
His midfield pairing alongside Garry Ringrose will provide fascinating viewing for fans of Leinster and Ireland alike.
Munster have made five changes to the side that thrashed Zebre last time out, with the most significant being the return of Peter O’Mahoney who also captains the side.
Niall Scannell and John Ryan come into the front row, while Ronan O’Mahony starts on the wing and Rory Scannell comes in at centre alongside Keith Earls.
Leinster XV: Rob Kearney; Rory O’Loughlin, Garry Ringrose, Robbie Henshaw, Isa Nacewa (C); Johnny Sexton, Luke McGrath; Cian Healy, Sean Cronin, Tadhg Furlong, Devin Toner, Ian Nagle, Rhys Ruddock, Jordi Murphy, Jamie Heaslip.
Replacements: James Tracy, Jack McGrath, Mike Ross, Ross Molony, Dan Leavy, Jamison Gibson-Park, Joey Carbery, Noel Reid.
Munster XV: Simon Zebo; Darren Sweetnam, Keith Earls, Rory Scannell, Ronan O’Mahony; Tyler Bleyendaal, Conor Murray; Dave Kilcoyne, Niall Scannell, John Ryan; Donnacha Ryan, Billy Holland; Peter O’Mahony (C), Tommy O’Donnell, CJ Stander.
Replacements: Duncan Casey, James Cronin, Stephen Archer, Robin Copeland, Jack O’Donoghue, Duncan Williams, Ian Keatley, Jaco Taute.
