Fresh start for new Blue Sykes

SOUTH AFRICAN import Steven Sykes makes his Leinster debut in tonight’s RaboDirect Pro12 clash with Aironi at the RDS (6pm).

But the newcomer, who is better known as a back-rower, will pack down in the second row alongside Devin Toner. Leinster coach Joe Schmidt has handed starts to Ruddock brothers Ciaran and Rhys and Academy out-half Noel Reid.

Reid (21) partners Cillian Willis at half-back in the only change to the backline which started last weekend’s 15-10 victory away to the Scarlets.