British & Irish Lions 59 Barbarians RFC 8

Hong Kong’s intense heat and humidity may be “hellish”, in Conor Murray’s words, but British & Irish Lions assistant coach Rob Howley believes conditions for the opening game this weekend will stand his players in good stead for the three-Test series with Australia.

Italy’s Sergio Parisse will captain the Barbarians against the British and Irish Lions in Hong Kong this Saturday.

Ulster 9 Northampton Saints 10

John Afoa is adamant the three components of Ulster’s recent good form must be repeated if the northerners are to achieve the double over Premiership giants Northampton at Ravenhill this evening.

Ulster’s Rory Best remembers the last Heineken Cup clash with Northampton extremely well and wants to wipe away the memory of defeat in the best possible way.

Leinster manager Guy Easterby expects his side to get back on track next weekend away to Sale Sharks after an experimental team were out to the sword at Franklin’s Gardens on Saturday.

NORTHAMPTON SAINTS are determined to complete their European revenge mission against Munster on Saturday after ending the Scarlets Heineken Cup hopes.

HE’S Portumna born and bred, has the Cannings and Damien Hayes as neighbours, and was good enough to win an All-Ireland minor hurling medal with Galway in 2000.