Vodacom Bulls coach Jake White will probably tell you it doesn’t really matter what side Leinster put out for Saturday’s Vodacom United Rugby Championship final, it will be a quality one.
Still, considering the wealth of resources at Leinster’s disposal, their current injury list is particularly intriguing, as they look to keep the Bulls guessing regarding exactly which players will be available for the final.
There was some admission from Leinster’s media update that Tommy O’Brien will be available again for selection after coming through the semifinal unscathed, while Jordan Larmour is also expected to feature for selection.
But the biggest update was that a number of their regulars were running at training and could be available for selection.
It remains to be seen whether or not Leinster feel they need to rush several of them back - including lock Tadhg Furlong, midfielder Garry Ringrose or fullback Hugo Keenan - all of whom have calf injuries.
But all three are quality and will be assessed with a final decision to be made on Tuesday.
The same goes for Josh van der Flier, the flanker who has made a name for himself in terrorising the breakdown, and is struggling with a hamstring injury. He was also one of the players who was running around in training, but Leinster have chosen to keep mum on whether he or the others are being looked at for the final.
Leinster have more than enough depth to put out a virtual international team without these players, and with the looming British and Irish Lions tour, several of these will be looking to keep fit for the tour, which may influence the decision on selection this week.
Either way, it won’t make much difference to the Bulls, who will be expecting to face Leinster’s best this weekend.
LEINSTER INJURY UPDATE
AVAILABLE FOR SELECTION:
Tommy O'Brien: came through the game at the weekend with no issues and is available for selection.
Jordan Larmour: was part of the extended matchday squad at the weekend and is available for selection.
FURTHER ASSESSMENT REQUIRED:
Tadhg Furlong: will be further assessed this week for a calf injury before a final decision will be made.
Garry Ringrose: will be further assessed this week for a calf injury before a final decision will be made.
Hugo Keenan: will be further assessed this week for a calf injury before a final decision will be made.
Josh van der Flier: will be further assessed this week for a hamstring injury before a final decision will be made.
NOT AVAILABLE FOR SELECTION:
N/A
NO FURTHER UPDATES ON:
Will Connors, Brian Deeny, Caelan Doris and Robbie Henshaw.