Leinster ready for Cardiff challenge

Scott Penny will win his 50th cap as Leinster host Cardiff Rugby in Round 13 of the BKT United Rugby Championship, on Saturday.

Rhys Ruddock captains the team on Saturday evening, with Scott Penny set to make his 50th appearance.

Leo Cullen has selected a number of Academy players in the squad, with James Culhane and Aitzol King set to make their debuts from the bench.

Chris Cosgrave starts the game at full-back, with Max O’Reilly and Dave Kearney on the wings. Liam Turner is joined in the centre by Ben Brownlee, who is set to make his first start for Leinster.

Harry Byrne and Luke McGrath are the half-backs, completing the backline. In the pack, Michael Milne, John McKee and Michael Ala’alatoa form the front row.

Ross Molony and Brian Deeny are in the second row, with Ruddock, Penny and Max Deegan completing the back row.

On the bench, there is a welcome return from injury for Will Connors, while Culhane and King look set to make their debuts.

Leinster

15. Chris Cosgrave
16. Max O’Reilly
17. Liam Turner
18. Ben Brownlee
19. Dave Kearney
20. Harry Byrne
21. Luke McGrath

1. Michael Milne
2. John McKee
3. Michael Ala’alatoa
4. Ross Molony
5. Brian Deeny
6. Rhys Ruddock (C)
7. Scott Penny
8. Max Deegan

Replacements

16. Tadgh McElroy
17. Marcus Hanan
18. Thomas Clarkson
19. James Culhane
20. Will Connors
21. Nick McCarthy
22. Charlie Tector
23. Aitzol King

Referee: Jaco Peyper (SARU)

Leinster v Cardiff Rugby

BKT United Rugby Championship

Saturday January 28, RDS Arena,

Kick-off: 5.05pm