What do Champions Cup performances say about Irish rugby?

IF Ulster’s amazing 38-0 demolition of Toulouse on Friday night suggested talk of the demise of the Irish provinces in Europe is a bit premature, the performances of Munster and Leinster only served to open the debate once again.

Leinster are out, Munster all but out and Ulster are already consigned to chasing one of the three best-placed runners-up slots as Saracens appear certain to top Pool 1.

It was very difficult to escape the feeling that Munster’s game at home to Leicester in Limerick on Saturday night had far more hanging on the performance and result than the maximum five Champions Cup points on offer.