As the URC action returns this weekend, the festive period means one of the sport's biggest rivalries is reignited in Munster V Leinster. This clash is usually a tradition on Stephen's day, but the pandemic has meant 2019 is the last festive clash between the pair. While Leinster's dominance in the league has somewhat dampened the rivalry, Munster proved in the clash this season at the Aviva that the future is bright for the men in red.
In what should be an entertaining clash, here is all you need to know ahead of Munster v Leinster.
When Is Munster V Leinster?
Leinster V Munster is this Monday, with kick-off at Thomond Park at 7.35.
How Can I Watch Munster V Leinster?
The game will be shown live on RTÉ Two, with coverage beginning at 6.50.
Form Guide
Both sides will come into this game full of confidence after the opening round of European fixtures. After a difficult start at home to Toulouse, Munster rallied to earn a hard fought win over Northampton in Franklin Gardens. Victory for Graham Rowntree's side against their biggest rivals would be a huge statement to the rest of the URC.
Leinster are unbeaten so far this season, as Leo Cullen's side showed no mercy to an under strength Gloucester side in the RDS last weekend. After two bonus point win in Europe, Leo Cullen's side will be determined to prove there is still a noticeable gap between the provinces.
Team News
Young second rows Edwin Edogbo and Tom Ahern remain sidelined due to long term injuries, while Andrew Conway still remains injured through a knee problem.
Otherwise it's a full strength side for Munster, with Jack Crowley continuing at inside centre.
MUNSTER NAME TEAM FOR #MUNvLEI pic.twitter.com/QJOcYv0Ojt
— Three Red Kings (@threeredkings) December 23, 2022
For Leinster, Jordan Larmour makes his first start after returning from injury last weekend. Ross Byrne starts at fly-half, with Rhys Ruddock and Scott Penny among those to come into the side. Tadhg Furlong, Robbie Henshaw, Ciarán Frawley and Jason Jenkins are ruled out through injury.
📥 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐥𝐚𝐬𝐭 #𝐋𝐞𝐢𝐧𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐑𝐮𝐠𝐛𝐲 𝐭𝐞𝐚𝐦 𝐨𝐟 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟐
Andrew Porter is set to make his 100th appearance in blue on St. Stephen's Day against Munster#MUNvLEI #FromTheGroundUp pic.twitter.com/PGBSZ6LNe6— Leinster Rugby (@leinsterrugby) December 23, 2022
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