Leinster Aim for Welford Road Hat-Trick Against Former Haunt Leicester
Table of Contents
Leicester v Leinster fixtures have become common recently – the fifth as 2022 takes place on Friday night – but the history between the sides runs far deeper. leo Cullen, head coach of the dublin-based province, spent a couple of seasons at Welford Road in the mid-2000s, winning the Premiership in 2006-07 and losing a Heineken Cup final against Wasps in the same season.
Since 2022 the former second‑row has overseen four Champions Cup victories against his former club, including two in 2023-24. Three and a half years ago, there was a masterful quarter-final dismantling of what was then steve Borthwick’s side. Leinster will now shoot for a hat-trick of Welford Road victories this decade, and the presence of the New Zealand international Rieko Ioane, on full debut, is sure to help.
The respect between the clubs was illustrated by Cullen in his pre‑match media briefing: he opened by appealing for support for Lewis Moody after his former teammate was diagnosed recently with motor neurone disease.Then he explained how his stay at Leicester had been formative.
“It was based on hard work,” he saeid. “There’s no secret to success, is there? Readiness and hard work play a huge part. That’s the bit that will always be with me.It was tough going but I loved my time there.Cockers [Richard cockerill] was starting off on his [coaching] journey. He was a hard taskmaster and he had attention to detail. There was great camaraderie, people coming together, an expectation with w
Leinster Face Leicester in Champions Cup Clash with Ioane Set to Shine
Leinster and Leicester Tigers are set to face off in a highly anticipated Champions Cup match, with Leinster welcoming back several key players including Tadhg Furlong and Rónan Kelleher. All Blacks winger Rieko Ioane is also in line to make a notable impact after making his debut for the province last week. Leicester, simultaneously occurring, will be bolstered by the return of five Test players, despite being without several injured stars. This match promises a compelling contest between two European rugby powerhouses.
Team Lineups and Key Changes
Leinster head coach Leo Cullen has made seven changes to the team that defeated harlequins. Ioane will start at outside-centre, partnering with robbie Henshaw. The return of Furlong and Kelleher provides further strength to the pack, while Dan Sheehan’s inclusion on the bench highlights Leinster’s depth. James ryan will earn his 99th cap for the province, pairing with Joe McCarthy in the second row, supported by a formidable back row featuring Jack conan, Josh van der Flier, and Caelan Doris. https://www.leinsterrugby.ie/news/leinster-v-leicester-tigers-team-announcement
Leicester are dealing with injuries to Ollie Chessum, Emeka Ilione, and Jack van Poortvliet. Though, they welcome back England internationals Freddie Steward, Joe Heyes, and Jamie Blamire, alongside Welsh players Tommy Reffell and Nicky Smith. Reffell, recently becoming a father to daughter Nancy, will captain the side. George Martin, who has announced his move to Saracens, remains sidelined with a shoulder injury. https://www.leicestertigers.com/news/tigers-name-team-to-face-leinster
Friendships and Rivalry
The match also carries a personal element for Leicester’s Ollie Chessum, who developed friendships with Leinster players during the 2021 British & Irish Lions tour to Australia. Chessum noted the challenge of facing former colleagues, suggesting that knowing them personally initially provided motivation, but acknowledging that this isn’t always the case. https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2023/dec/16/leinster-v-leicester-tigers-champions-cup-preview-rieiko-ioane
Despite the competitive nature of the Champions Cup, the rivalry between Leinster and Leicester has historically been a kind one, and this match is expected to continue that tradition.
looking Ahead
This Champions Cup fixture is a crucial one for both sides as they aim to progress in the tournament. Leinster, with their strong squad and home advantage, will be favorites, but Leicester’s returning internationals and steadfast spirit make them a hazardous opponent. The match promises a high level of intensity and skill, and will be a significant test for both teams as they navigate the challenges of European rugby’s top competition.
Related reading