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Leinster vs Connacht URC Derby at Dexcom Stadium

Published 24 January 2026

Leinster face Connacht in a highly anticipated United Rugby Championship interprovincial derby on Saturday evening at Dexcom Stadium in Galway, marking the official opening of the venue's newly redeveloped Clan Stand before a sold-out crowd of more than 12,000 spectators. Kickoff is scheduled for 5:15 p.m., with the match broadcast live on Premier Sports 1 in Ireland and available via streaming on the Premier Sports Player.

Leinster head coach Leo Cullen has named a strong lineup featuring several milestones and a debutant, as the province seeks to extend its nine-game winning streak. Captain Caelan Doris will earn his 100th cap for Leinster at No. 8, flanked by openside flanker Will Connors and blindside Alex Soroka in the back row. South African lock RG Snyman partners Ireland international James Ryan in the second row. Up front, New York-born prop Niall Smyth makes his senior debut at tighthead, packing down with loosehead Jack Boyle and hooker Gus McCarthy. In the backs, outhalf Harry Byrne pairs with scrumhalf Fintan Gunne, while centres Charlie Tector and Garry Ringrose form the midfield. British and Irish Lions wing James Lowe returns on the left after missing recent...

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