Leinster Rotates Squad for Ulster URC Match in Belfast

Leinster Rugby has named a rotated squad to face Ulster in Round 15 of the BKT United Rugby Championship on Friday at 7:45 p.m. at Affidea Stadium in Belfast, with James Ryan captaining the side and young outhalf Sam Prendergast returning to the starting lineup after missing recent Champions Cup matches.

The clash pits two closely matched provinces against each other, separated by just one point in the standings, as both vie for position in the playoff race with four regular-season games remaining. Leinster, sitting fourth, advanced to a home Champions Cup semifinal against Toulon following last weekend's victory over Sale Sharks, while Ulster progressed in the Challenge Cup by defeating La Rochelle in the quarterfinals.

Head coach Leo Cullen's selections reflect ongoing injury challenges, particularly at loosehead prop, where Leinster has been hit hard. With Andrew Porter, Paddy McCarthy, Jack Boyle, and Alex Usanov sidelined, academy player Jerry Cahir starts in the front row alongside hooker Rónan Kelleher and tighthead Thomas Clarkson. Ryan partners Brian Deeny in the second row, while the back row features Alex Soroka, Scott Penny, and James Culhane. Prendergast pairs with...