The Pro14 is nearing completion, and once again the finest representatives from Irish, Scottish, and Welsh rugby are represented in the final four.
With Scarlets and Glasgow making up one semi-final, the other represents an all-Irish affair.
Munster have earned everything they’ve got in the competition this year, just edging South African outfit Cheetahs into the playoff position in Conference A. With a record of 13 wins, 7 losses and 1 draw, the men from Limerick will feel they can bring a gritty brand of rugby to the table come Saturday.
Their opponents Leinster have had a season for the ages, with head coach Stuart Lancaster guiding the ship. Topping Conference B, the Dubliners also added the European Championship in Bilbao last weekend.
An impressive defensive display combined with superior game management to secure a 15-12 victory against Racing amidst the Spanish downpour.
Stepping into the Pro14 semi-final, many are viewing Leinster as the overwhelming favourites.
Here are the key battles that will determine the outcome of Munster vs. Leinster.
1) Can Munster stop the all-star Leinster backs?
Leinster have an arsenal of talent in the backs division. Captain Isa Nasewa lurks on one wing, as Jordan Larmour and Rob Kearney round out a truly terrifying back three. Things don’t get easier inside for Munster, either. Irish internationals Garry Ringrose and Robbie Henshaw await in the midfield. If Munster can’t contain the play-makers, they can kiss their Pro14 title hopes goodbye.
2) Can Munster get the ball into the hands of Alex Wooton?
Alex Wooton has been the undeniable star of Munster’s season to this point, and the fullback/wing leads the team in tries, metres gained, and carries. Keeping Leinster quiet is one thing, but they must find a way to get points on the board. Their best chance of that seems to be in the hands of the young Wooton.
3) Can Leinster get Johnny Sexton on the tee as much as possible?
The experienced fly-half has an arrow of a right boot, and Munster will be hoping they don’t see much of it on Saturday afternoon. Discipline in the ruck and self-restraint on the line will be necessary to keep Sexton off the tee.
4) Can Munster stun Leinster in the pack?
Similar to the backs division, Leinster’s pack is also teeming with quality. Cian Healy and Tadhg Furlong headline the front row, with Devin Toner and James Ryan making up the equally superb second row. The 21-year-old Ryan was named man of the match for his efforts in Bilbao, and is on the way to creating a name for himself at a tender age.
5) Conditioning
After the jubilation in northern Spain, how much have Leinster got left in the tank? If these players are at anything less than 100%, there is a serious chance a capable Munster squad could defy the odds and progress to the Pro14 final.