As the Investec Champions Cup kicks off, all eyes will be on Ashton Gate as Leinster Rugby takes on the Bristol Bears in a highly anticipated encounter.
Both teams are eager to make a strong start in the tournament, with Leinster looking to build on their impressive form in the United Rugby Championship, where they remain unbeaten after seven matches.
They will, of course, be looking to win this competition having been defeated in the final four of the past five years.
Bristol, on the other hand, will be keen to assert their dominance on home soil and challenge the reigning champions.
The Bears have a passionate fan base that creates an electric atmosphere at Ashton Gate, and they will be hoping to use this to their advantage.
With a roster filled with skilful players and a determined coaching staff, Bristol is poised to put up a strong fight against the Irish giants.
The stakes are high, and both teams understand the importance of securing points early in the competition.
When to Watch
The match is scheduled for Sunday at 17:30.
Rugby fans will not want to miss this encounter, as it promises to deliver edge-of-the-seat action from start to finish.
How to Watch
Fans can watch the action live on Premier Sports 1, ensuring they don’t miss any of the excitement as these two sides battle it out for supremacy.
Team News
Hugo Keenan and James Lowe will miss out through injury for Leinster.
The big news is that Jordie Barrett will make his debut, coming off the bench.
Leinster have also opted to start Sam Prendergast at outhalf, which is very interesting considering Ireland's use of Prendergast in the Autumn internationals.
🚨 𝐅𝐢𝐫𝐬𝐭 𝐄𝐮𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐚𝐧 𝐭𝐞𝐚𝐦 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐨𝐧 🚨
🔵 Here is the #LeinsterRugby team to face @BristolBears in our @ChampionsCup opener on Sunday!#BRIvLEI #FromTheGroundUp pic.twitter.com/JFJsyjj8md— Leinster Rugby (@leinsterrugby) December 6, 2024
Leinster’s head coach, Leo Cullen, is optimistic about the integration of All Black Jordie Barrett into the squad.
After joining the team mid-week, Barrett participated in the warm-up during Leinster's recent victory over Ulster.
Cullen stated, "We want to make sure we set him up as well as possible to help him succeed," indicating a careful approach to Barrett’s inclusion following a slight knock he sustained during international duty.
The coaching staff is keen to ensure that Barrett is fully fit and ready to make an impact in such a crucial match.
Bristol will also be looking to field a strong side, aiming to capitalise on their home advantage.
With a blend of experienced internationals and exciting young talent, the Bears will be looking to execute their game plan effectively.
