Rugby

Johnny Sexton return a boost ahead of busy period for Leinster

Johnny Sexton hasn’t played since being forced off with a hamstring injury in Ireland’s defeat to New Zealand back in November
Johnny Sexton hasn’t played since being forced off with a hamstring injury in Ireland’s defeat to New Zealand back in November Johnny Sexton hasn’t played since being forced off with a hamstring injury in Ireland’s defeat to New Zealand back in November

Guinness PRO12: Leinster v Zebre (tonight, 7.35pm, live on TG4)

A BRUISING festive period may have taken its toll on Leinster, but the return of Ireland star Johnny Sexton after a seven-week lay-off is a huge boost.

The 31-year-old hasn’t played since being forced off with a hamstring injury in Ireland’s defeat to New Zealand in November but, with Leinster meeting Montpellier in the Champions Cup next week, the timing of his return couldn’t be better.

First though, they must take care of PRO12 basement side Zebre at the RDS on Friday night. And head coach Leo Cullen had no qualms about thrusting Sexton back into action against the Italians.

“He’s good to go this weekend,” said Cullen.

“We’re constantly assessing him and he’s come through training well over the last couple of weeks. Time will tell how good this period has been for the player. He’s in good spirits and he’s trained well. He’s looking forward to get back playing.”

Sexton's inclusion is one of seven changes to the team which defeated Ulster on New Year's Eve. Robbie Henshaw comes in to partner Garry Ringrose in the centre and prop Cian Healy is named in the front-row.

Zane Kirchner is included at full-back as Adam Byrne and Rory O'Loughlin continue on the wings. Luke McGrath partners Sexton in the half-backs, while James Tracy and Michael Bent join Healy in the front-row.

Devin Toner and Hayden Briggs continue in the second-row, while Dan Leavy starts at blindside flanker and Jack Conan at number eight. Sean O'Brien moves across the back-row to occupy the number seven jersey as Leinster look for a victory that keeps them hot on the heels of Munster and Ospreys at the top of the PRO12 standings.

TEAM NEWS


Leinster: Z Kirchner, A Byrne, G Ringrose, R Henshaw, R O'Loughlin; J Sexton, L McGrath, C Healy, J Tracy, M Bent; D Toner, H Triggs, D Leavy, S O'Brien, J Conan; Replacements: S Cronin, J McGrath, T Furlong, R Ruddock, J Heaslip, J Gibbson-Park, R Byrne, N Reid


Zebre: K Baker, M Bellini, M Pratichetti, T Castello, L Greeff, E Padovani, M Violi, A Lovotti, T D'Apice, P Ceccarelli, G Koegelenberg, G Biagi, D Minnie, F Ruzza, A Van Schalkwyk; Replacements: C Festuccia, A De Marchi, G Roan, J Furno, M Mbanda, G Palazzani, G Venditti, S Bordoli