WASPS head coach Tony Hanks was proud of his players after the London club came close to pulling off a shock victory at the reigning Heineken Cup champions.

FAR from a bright beginning for new Leinster coach Joe Schmidt as his side were given a lesson in organisation, intensity and clinical finishing by Shaun Edwards’ London-based boys in a friendly at Donnybrook last night.

Fit-again Sean O'Brien will captain Leinster against London Wasps in Friday's pre-season friendly in Donnybrook (KO: 7pm).

FELIX JONES gave a virtuoso performance than suggested Leinster’s loss may be Munster’s gain as Ireland A produced a shock maiden Churchill Cup victory in some style last night.

SHANE HORGAN will start Ireland A’s clash with England Saxons at Welford Road next Friday.

Ireland internationals Geordan Murphy and Shane Jennings will start for Leicester Tigers against Llanelli Scarlets in the Heineken Cup semi-final at the Walkers Stadium on Saturday.

GEORDAN MURPHY has underlined Leicester’s degree of difficulty in chasing an unprecedented trophy treble, declaring: “It is like climbing Everest.”

England have included World Cup winner Mike Catt in their squad for the two-Test tour to Australia.

Lawrence Dallaglio has been named in England’s RBS 6 Nations training squad - almost 17 months after he quit international rugby.

Leicester lock Louis Deacon will make his England debut in Saturday’s clash against Samoa at Twickenham.

Leicester Tigers 50 Munster 19