Cullen backs Dev to stand tall for Blues

Leinster captain Leo Cullen is backing fellow lock Devin Toner to make more giant strides in his game over the coming season as the European champions open their RaboDirect Pro12 campaign at Scarlets today (6.30pm).

Cullen will be watching Toner, 26, from the stands at Parc Y Scarlets as Leinster coach Joe Schmidt manages his squad through the early stages of the season with the other second row spot going to Damian Browne and new signing Tom Denton on the bench.

Cullen has been impressed by Toner’s development through the Leinster ranks and believes last season he finally conquered the physical demands his 6ft 11ins, 19st 7lbs frame impose during a game.