French have to hand it to O'Gara and his 'magic glove' plan

Calling in hurling outfitters in a bid to get Tawera Kerr-Barlow on the pitch to face Leinster catches the Gallic attention 

Technology working miracles?: Ronan O'Gara, head coach of La Rochelle, celebrates with Wiaan Liebenberg (L) and Tawera Kerr-Barlow after their victory during the Heineken Champions Cup Semi-Final. Photo: (David Rodgers / Getty)

The diligent efforts of La Rochelle boss Ronan O’Gara to get his most experienced scrum-half back in time for Saturday’s Champions Cup final against Leinster have made quite the impression in France.

Tawera Kerr-Barlow suffered two fractured bones in his left hand in the semi-final win over Racing 92 in Lens a fortnight ago and seemed set to miss the European showpiece - only returning in time for the Top 14 final, if La Rochelle made it that far.