Full coverage: Rugby

As Leinster and Munster's coaching teams pore over the wealth of data from the season, distinct patterns emerge, revealing areas of strength and those in need of refinement. In many cases, the facts challenge the narrative building about the perceived weaknesses of both teams.

Leinster have been left with a mammoth physical and psychological task as they pick up the pieces from the European final defeat in London. There are many uncharacteristic reasons why they lost. Now they have to find the answers.

Leinster struggled with gaining and maintaining a good field position in the second half of the European Rugby Champions Cup last weekend. Their possession and exit strategies from their defensive third were notably poor. But it can be remedied.

Rugby player-turned-businessman Brendan Mullin was pursued over an allegedly unsatisfied debt of €1.8 million. The proceedings have now settled.

Ronan O’Gara’s coaching ethos is a fusion of strategic brilliance, motivational strength, and psychological insight. Both his career trajectory and his methodologies echo the depth and, sometimes, the cunning that Machiavelli advocated for effective leadership. Leinster beware.

Rugby subs used to come on only after an injury, which had to be medically certified. Now it’s a 23-man game with subs playing a critical role in outcomes. Should their number be limited?

Twickenham stadium is showing its age. And English rugby appears caught in a bygone era, surpassed by the progress of other nations in both strategy and execution on and off the field.

Ireland's performance has stepped up a gear from the rugby world cup and from last year's tournament. Here are five ways the team is developing.

Ireland has some good rugby teams, but the national U20 side is arguably the outstanding one. The U20s have won 22 games out of 24 since 2019. What's behind the success of Ireland's underage development system?

In Marseille on Friday night, Ireland found another level. The post-Sexton era is looking promising.