A return to action would really be an added boost for Leinster.
After two months out, Robbie Henshaw is on the cusp of a return. The centre injured his shoulder scoring a try in Ireland’s thumping Six Nations win over Italy but Leinster have suggested that he will feature in their European Champions Cup semi-final against Scarlets this weekend.
Leinster coach Leo Cullen seemed cautiously optimistic when asked about the 24-year-old’s chances of playing a part in the clash at the Aviva Stadium, saying he was “getting closer.”
In addition, Stuart Lancaster said that Leinster were delighted to see Henshaw back on the pitch after he warmed up with his teammates before the defeat to Benetton Treviso.
With the prospect of Henshaw returning, the lads on The Hard Yards discussed how Leinster can get the most out of him, considering he will be short on match fitness.
When host Andy McGeady asked if Henshaw would be involved against Scarlets, pointing out that he was “running with the team,” James Downey was admittedly sceptical.
“His lack of rugby will go against him unfortunately,” Downey said. “This could have an impact depending on Luke McGrath perhaps, if you want you could push [Isa] Nacewa to the wing and I think Nacewa’s done great stuff at 12 actually, he’s a calming influence and a leader, so I’d leave it as is.”
Pat McCarry was more hopeful that Henshaw could feature on the bench.
“They had Rory O’Loughlin on the bench there for the quarters so maybe they’ll have Henshaw and O’Brien, they’d be two amazing players to have on the bench if they needed him,” McCarry said.Â
“It would be an interesting call actually,” Downey added. “If he’s not played then it depends on how far down the line he is tackling wise. He can run, running’s fine but it’s taking an impact on that shoulder.”
It remains to be seen how prominently Henshaw will be involved in Dublin on Saturday. If he makes the bench, there’s a good chance Cullen won’t use him unless they really need him. If Scarlets gain the upper-hand in the game, the 24-year-old would be an excellent option to have but, as Cullen said, it’s all about managing his comeback.
You can listen to Monday’s edition of The Hard Yards below. There’s an in-depth Champions Cup preview while the panel also discuss what the future holds for Paddy Jackson and Stuart Olding after having their contracts revoked by Ulster.Â
https://soundcloud.com/thehardyardssportsjoe/ep-59-champions-cup-what-next-for-jackson-and-olding-and-french-heartbreak-for-jimmy
