Debuts, returns & tributes – teams named for European openers
Ireland’s four provincial teams begin their European rugby campaigns on Saturday against French, Italian and English opponents. Leinster, last season’s Champions Cup runners-up, face Clermont away, while Connacht host Saracens and Munster welcome Racing 92; Ulster open their Challenge Cup campaign against Zebre.
Joey Carbery is named among Leinster’s replacements for his first appearance for the province in eight years, with Sam Prendergast starting at fly-half in a side featuring 14 Ireland internationals. Munster make six changes and will retire the number eight shirt in memory of Anthony Foley, ten years after his death, with Brian Gleeson wearing number 24. Ulster’s team includes a debut for centre Daniel Hawkshaw and is led for the first time by David McCann.
- Leinster begin their campaign against Clermont in France.
- Joey Carbery could make his first Leinster appearance in eight years.
- Munster retire the number eight shirt in Anthony Foley’s memory.
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European club rugby is played each season in two main competitions: the Champions Cup and the Challenge Cup. Teams qualify through their domestic leagues, and face clubs from other countries; Ireland’s provincial sides compete alongside clubs from France, England and Italy.
Leinster, Munster, Connacht and Ulster represent Ireland’s four provinces in professional rugby. The fixtures bring together clubs with different histories and resources, while also giving players a chance to establish themselves at provincial level.
Anthony Foley was a Munster player and coach who died in 2016. Retiring his number eight shirt is a way for the club to honour his connection with the team.