Leinster V Gloucester will get the Champions Cup actions underway for the Irish provinces this weekend in the RDS. After victories for both sides in the opening round, a win in this fixture would put either side in a great position to qualify for the last 16. Leinster have looked unstoppable so far this season wining every game as they chase a fifth European crown.
For Gloucester, they are currently in fourth place in the Gallagher Premiership. A win against Leo Cullen's side would be a huge statement to the rest of Europe.
Here is all you need to know ahead of Leinster V Gloucester
When Is Leinster V Gloucester?
Leinster V Gloucester is this Friday, with kick-off at the RDS at 8.00.
How Can I Watch Leinster V Gloucester?
Live coverage of the game will be shown by RTÉ Two, with coverage beginning at 7.30.
Form Guide
Leinster made a huge statement last weekend with a huge 42-10 victory over Racing 92 in France. Despite missing Johnny Sexton and Tadhg Furlong, and arriving to France late, the made light work of the French side. The format of the competition means points difference could prove to be crucial, so a big win away in France could have huge implications.
Despite playing some of the best rugby in Europe, Leinster have fallen short in their quest for a fifth star in vital moments. Last weekend's victory will have silenced a lot of doubters.
For Gloucester, they also got off to a winning start against French opposition, with a 22-17 victory at home to Bordeaux.
Team News
The big news for Leinster is the return of Johnny Sexton, who takes his place on the bench. It's his first appearance since Ireland's victory over South Africa in November. Jordan Larmour is also set to make his return from injury off the bench.
Ronan Kelleher comes in for Dan Sheehan, while Tadhg Furlong is still out through injury.
📥| 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐟𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐡𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐭𝐞𝐚𝐦 𝐨𝐟 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟐
Here is your #LeinsterRugby matchday squad for tomorrow's #HeinekenChampionsCup clash with @gloucesterrugby
🔁 Four changes from the win last week
🧢 Ross Molony makes his 150th appearance#LEIvGLO | #FromTheGroundUp pic.twitter.com/sYygJrMl4N— Leinster Rugby (@leinsterrugby) December 15, 2022
Meanwhile, Gloucester have caused huge controversy with their team selction, making 14 changes from last weekend.
𝐑𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝 𝐓𝐰𝐨 🏆
Your Cherry & Whites to face the four-time winners in Dublin👊
1️⃣4️⃣ Academy graduates
👨✈️ @bipmeehan skippers the team
🏥 @alexcraig_1 & Harry Taylor return
📰 https://t.co/AVQz5yt6Eb
🤝 Teamsheet proudly sponsored by @BPE_Solicitors
#LEIvGLO // 🔵🍒 pic.twitter.com/wA2lPiLEEs— Gloucester Rugby (@gloucesterrugby) December 15, 2022
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