Full coverage: Rugby

Munster will look to employ a kicking game to disrupt Leinster's defensive rhythm, followed by clever short-side attacks off lineouts, designed to counteract Leinster's aggressive blitz defence. Will it be enough?

The success story of the women's team offers valuable lessons for addressing the challenges in the men's game. With numerous talented players across the country, both male and female, the key lies in creating opportunities.

When injury derailed his sporting career, finding things to do that didn’t involve rugby became a priority for Dan Leavy. This was about more than securing his professional future, he needed it for his sanity as much as anything.

Connacht are in re-build mode. Leinster are looking for redemption. Munster are looking to rebuild, while Ulster are in transition. Despite all that, the chances of an Irish team winning the URC remain strong.

Despite prioritising their domestic league, French clubs have recently dominated European competitions, winning the last four European Cups. Their success is largely attributed to their financial strength, but other factors also contribute.

Advanced analytics and AI technology will become the backbone of rugby strategy as each team looks for an edge over their competitors. From player development to split-second decisions on the pitch, data will drive the game like never before. 

Geraldines Patrick Moran Club is a large South Dublin GAA Clubs. It has co-existed beside children's rugby club St Brigid’s RFC for decades. But as a new ownership deal is done, concerns have arisen.

Ireland must decide whether to stay with their proven methods or to evolve their approach, potentially integrating aspects of Leinster's new style into the national team's tactics. This choice could have far-reaching implications for Irish 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.