Leinster’s Gibson-Park Fit As Healy Approaches Caps Record

Jamison Gibson-Park has been declared fit to play in Leinster’s opening BKT URC clash against Edinburgh, providing a boost for the team as they kick off their season at the Hive Stadium tomorrow.

Gibson-Park, who missed Ireland’s tour to South Africa due to a hamstring injury, has fully recovered and is set to partner with out-half Sam Prendergast in what is anticipated to be a thrilling encounter.

Adding to the excitement, Cian Healy is on the verge of equaling the Leinster caps record. If Healy makes an appearance in the game, he will match Devin Toner’s record of 280 Leinster appearances, marking a significant milestone in his illustrious career. This achievement highlights Healy’s enduring role and commitment to the team.

Leinster’s lineup features a mix of experience and emerging talent, with Jack Conan captaining the side from number 8. He will lead an unchanged back row alongside Max Deegan and Scott Penny, who impressed during the pre-season, including a commanding 54-26 win over Northampton Saints.

Here’s a closer look at Leinster’s squad for the season opener:

Michael Milne – Prop
Gus McCarthy – Prop
Thomas Clarkson – Prop
Conor O’Tighearnaigh – Lock
James Ryan – Lock
Max Deegan – Flanker
Scott Penny – Flanker
Jack Conan (C) – Number 8
Jamison Gibson-Park – Scrum-half
Sam Prendergast – Out-half
Tommy O’Brien – Wing
Charlie Tector – Centre
Garry Ringrose – Centre
Jordan Larmour – Wing
Jamie Osborne – Full-back

Bench: 16. Rabah Slimani – Prop 17. John McKee – Prop 18. Brian Deeny – Lock/Flanker 19. James Culhane – Flanker 20. Luke McGrath – Scrum-half 21. Ross Byrne – Out-half 22. Rob Russell – Wing/Full-back

In the second row, Conor O’Tighearnaigh will partner James Ryan. O’Tighearnaigh, who has shown promise in pre-season matches against Bordeaux-Bègles and Northampton, is one of three academy players starting.

Joining him in the front row are Gus McCarthy, making his first senior start, Michael Milne, and Thomas Clarkson. McCarthy’s selection is a notable step in his career, as he steps up from his role as former Ireland Under-20 captain.

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Jamie Osborne, who shone against the Springboks, will start at full-back. His performance there has earned him this crucial role. On the wings, Tommy O’Brien and Jordan Larmour will provide speed and agility, ensuring a dynamic backline.

In the centres, third-year academy back Charlie Tector will pair with the experienced Garry Ringrose. Tector’s inclusion is a testament to his development within the academy, while Ringrose’s experience will be vital in guiding the younger player.

New signing Rabah Slimani is poised to make his Leinster debut from the bench. His addition will bolster the squad’s depth, offering additional options in the front row. The forward cover on the bench also includes John McKee, Brian Deeny, and James Culhane, ensuring that Leinster has a strong support network throughout the match.

Rob Russell will join the seasoned half-back duo of Luke McGrath and Ross Byrne as the final replacements for the game. Russell’s presence underscores Leinster’s strategy of integrating youthful talent with experienced players to create a balanced and competitive squad.

In other developments, Ulster has secured prop Corrie Barrett on a short-term deal until the end of the season. Barrett has already featured in Ulster’s pre-season friendlies against Benetton and Exeter Chiefs, demonstrating his readiness.

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His previous experience with Garryowen, Munster ‘A’, Bedford Blues, Saracens, and Doncaster Knights in the RFU Championship adds valuable depth to Ulster’s forward pack.

As Leinster prepares to face Edinburgh, the season opener promises to be a significant event. The team’s lineup reflects a careful blend of seasoned veterans and emerging stars, setting the stage for an exciting start to the BKT United Rugby Championship season.

With key players like Jamison Gibson-Park and Cian Healy making headlines, the match is eagerly anticipated by fans and promises to deliver a compelling start to the new rugby season.