Ireland veteran spotted in SA ahead of Sharks clash
NEWS: Leinster head coach Leo Cullen is keeping his cards close to his chest once again as his team prepares for their United Rugby Championship Round 14 match against the Sharks in Durban.
In the Irish province’s injury update, it was revealed that loose forwards Max Deegan and James Culhane have entered the ‘Graduated Return to Play Protocols’ after suffering head knocks in the 20-21 defeat to the Bulls in Pretoria last weekend.
However, according to reports from Irish media, Culhane has already been ruled out of the Kings Park clash, while Deegan might come through the protocols in time.
Cullen would not confirm if any of his big Ireland internationals have joined the squad this week, but a familiar face was photographed in their camp ahead of the Sharks clash.
That player is veteran Ireland prop Cian Healy, who was on the training pitch in South Africa.
Another @URCOfficial match week in South Africa. Getting ready to bounce back against The Sharks 💪#SHAvLEI #NeverLessThanEverything pic.twitter.com/VilNSTisif
— Leinster Rugby (@leinsterrugby) March 24, 2025
Meanwhile, prop Michael Milne has stepped up his rehabilitation from a groin injury and will be further assessed this week ahead of a final decision on selection.
Rob Russell is unavailable for selection after injuring his hamstring at training.
There are no further updates on Jordan Larmour, Paddy McCarthy and Cormac Foley.
Additional source: Irish Mirror
United Rugby Championship
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