Leinster still formidable despite absentees

INJURIES and international duties will deprive Leinster of seven front-line players at the Sportsground this evening but Michael Cheika has still been able to name a hugely experienced first 15 for the Magners League tie against Connacht (kick-off 7.30).

Four full Irish internationals will fill out the pack, two more are likely to feature in the back three while Ollie le Roux, Felipe Contepomi and Chris Whitaker will again offer an international flavour to the side.

Whitaker will wear the captain’s armband in the absence of both Brian O’Driscoll and Leo Cullen. The Australian was captain for two pre-season games against Biarritz and Bath but this is the first time he will call the shots in a competitive fixture for Leinster this season.