Hepworth aims to prove worth to Cheika

AFTER the emotional turmoil of Paris and the shock of Mike Ruddock’s departure there may be a temptation to gloss over this weekend’s round of Celtic League fixtures.

Michael Cheika would take offence to that as the Leinster coach’s mantra is to give each game the same priority.

Cheika’s summer signing from rugby league, Johnny Hepworth, could vouch for that. The former Leeds Rhino player has been given five opportunities to prove his worth to the Australian coach and, with his contract due to expire at the end of the season, today’s game against the Dragons at Rodney Parade (5.30pm) is as important as any international.