Cian Prendergast to Captain Connacht in EPCR Challenge Cup Clash Against Sharks
Cian Prendergast returns to captain Connacht for their EPCR Challenge Cup Round of 16 clash against the Hollywoodbets Sharks at Dexcom Stadium on Friday, with kickoff at 8:00 PM. Head coach Stuart Lancaster has made seven changes to the team that defeated Ospreys last week. [RTE]
Team Changes and Key Returns
Prendergast sat out the 21-14 win over Ospreys, extending Connacht’s winning run to five games. A sixth consecutive win would mark their best form in a decade. [RTE] The squad now has a full complement of Six Nations players available, with Prendergast, Bundee Aki, and Darragh Murray all starting. Finlay Bealham is among the replacements. [RTE]
New Zealander Sam Gilbert returns from injury to start at full-back, replacing Seam Naughton, who moves to the bench. Shane Jennings retains his place on the right wing, even as Chay Mullins comes in for the injured Finn Treacy on the left side. [RTE] Aki and Cathal Forde continue their partnership in the center for the third consecutive game.
Changes in the Half-Backs and Forwards
Matthew Devine replaces Ben Murphy at scrum-half, joining Josh Ioane in the half-backs. [RTE] Dave Heffernan remains at hooker, flanked by Billy Bohan and Sam Illo, with Peter Dooley and Bealham providing cover from the bench. Joe Joyce comes in for Niall Murray at lock, partnering Darragh Murray in the second row. [RTE]
Sean Jansen remains sidelined due to injury, allowing Prendergast to take Paul Boyle’s spot at number 8, with Shamus Hurley-Langton and Josh Murphy completing the back row. [RTE]
Connacht’s Challenge Cup Journey
Connacht is aiming to advance in the EPCR Challenge Cup, facing a Sharks side known for their physicality. [Connacht Rugby] The team is prepared for a tough contest, emphasizing the importance of capitalizing on their recent winning momentum. [MSN]
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