Leinster Gains Double British and Irish Lions Boost Ahead of URC Final Against the Bulls

Leinster is gearing up to end their four-year trophy drought as they prepare to face the Bulls in the United Rugby Championship (URC) final with a significant boost from the return of British and Irish Lions squad members Josh van der Flier and Garry Ringrose.

Ringrose, who has recovered from a calf injury, replaces Jamie Osborne in the starting lineup alongside All Black Jordie Barrett in the centers. Osborne moves to the bench, resulting in Ciaran Frawley being left out of the matchday 23.

Van der Flier's comeback sees Scott Penny omitted from the final lineup, as the Lions call-up joins captain Jack Conan and last week's man of the match Ryan Baird in the loose trio.

Due to a calf issue, Hugo Keenan will not be playing, allowing Jimmy O'Brien to retain his position at full-back, supported by wingers James Lowe and Tommy O'Brien. In the half-back positions, Jamison Gibson-Park and Sam Prendergast will start, while departing fly-half Ross Byrne is set to make his final appearance for Leinster off the bench.

The starting front-row remains unchanged with props Andrew Porter and Thomas Clarkson, and hooker Dan Sheehan, as Tadhg Furlong is unavailable. Joe McCarthy and James Ryan partner in the second-row, with RG Snyman providing impact from the bench alongside other replacements.

Bulls team:

Jake White announces the Bulls team early for the URC Final, with a Springboks star ruled out of the showdown against Leinster.

Former Springbok Jean de Villiers highlights the 'hatred' between Springboks and Ireland as a sign of respect, with South Africa supporting the Bulls against Leinster.