Leinster

The latest whisperings, murmurs and rumours from the world of rugby union, picking up bits and bobs from the written press, online and social media.

It’s been a grim couple of months for Irish rugby.

England star George Ford admitted it was a case of "focus on the process" as he kicked Bath to a European Champions Cup victory over Leinster.

Wasps handed Leinster a 33-6 defeat at the RDS to put the Irish province under presure in their European Champions Cup pool.

Former Ireland flanker Kevin McLaughlin is the latest in a worrying trend of rugby stars forced to prematurely retire from the game due to concussion-related issues.

Leo Cullen has been appointed as Leinster's new head coach.

Kane Douglas could challenge for a place in Australia's World Cup squad after being released from his Leinster contract with immediate effect.

He has been enjoying a new lease of life in Ireland. He is not short of receiving criticism and as the last line of defense takes it in his stride.

Leinster have announced head coach Matt O'Connor is to leave the Irish province.

Toulon needed extra time to beat Leinster 25-20 in a compelling European Champions Cup semi-final and make it through to a third consecutive European final.

Clermont were simply glorious; Leinster were brutally efficient. Saracens were powerful and clutch, whilst Toulon, believe it or not, were a tad lucky.

Ian Madigan booted Bath out of Europe as they made an agonising Champions Cup quarter-final exit in Dublin, despite scoring both tries of an absorbing Aviva Stadium encounter.

After a long break for the Six Nations, the European Rugby Champions Cup is back. Read on for our previews and predictions on each of the quarter-finals and let us know who you think will be making it through to semi-finals.

Leinster and Glasgow Warriors both headed home from the RDS with three points after playing out a thrilling 34-34 Guinness Pro12 draw.

Ahead of this weekends Semi-final fixtures Worcester have to beat a four year droubt for English sides against Leinster A, and 10th place in the Championship Doncaster take on 2nd Bristol.

Wasps number eight Ashley Johnson has been cited for an alleged dangerous tackle on Leinster wing Dave Kearney in the 20-20 draw at the Ricoh Arena on Saturday.

Cian Healy and Sean O'Brien could kick-start their fight for Six Nations fitness in Ireland Wolfhounds' clash with England Saxons.

Ian Madigan scored 19 points to drive Leinster to a 24-11 Guinness Pro12 victory over Ulster at the RDS Arena.

Clermont Auvergne, Harlequins, Leinster and Racing Métro were the day's winners as round two of the European Champions Cup ended with four action-packed matches.

Fergus McFadden is a major doubt for Ireland's autumn Test series after being ruled out of action for six weeks with an ankle injury.