Smyth selected for Leinster's URC opener in South Africa
Stephen Smyth has been named in the Leinster 23 for their URC opener against the Lions. Photo: INPHO/Grace Halton
This weekend marks the return of the BKT United Rugby Championship, with the four Irish provinces all looking to make winning starts.
Leinster are away in South Africa for a tough opening weekend, with Head Coach, Cullen naming Carlow's Stephen Smyth on the bench for the important clash.
With his final year in charge of the province ready to get underway, Leo Cullen has named an experimental side for tomorrow's Round 1 clash away to the Lions.
Ready to earn his fifth senior cap for the province is replacement hooker, Stephen Smyth, with Irish international, Gus McCarthy starting in the number two jersey.
Despite still being in the infancy of his career, Smyth's four caps to date makes him more experienced than seven of the Leinster 23, with Cullen naming a teamsheet more akin to a pre-season friendly.
Starting full back, Todd Lawlor, and replacement lock, Dylan McNeice are set to make their Leinster debuts; starting fly half, Caspar Gabriel, is making just his second appearance; while four players - Josh Ericson, Niall Smyth, Oliver Coffey and Ciaran Mangan - have each played just twice previously for the province.
Dexcom Stadium, Galway
Affidea Stadium, Belfast
Thomond Park, Limerick
