Having led Leinster to the RaboDirect PRO12 title last season, Ireland coach Joe Schmidt took the RBS 6 Nations crown at the first time of asking in a tense finish to the Championship last weekend. Following on Ireland’s success it is perhaps appropriate that as the RaboDirect PRO12 returns to centre stage three of the top four teams are Irish Provinces.
Schmidt’s former team, Leinster are in action at the RDS on Friday night, they and Munster both host Italian opposition in round 17 and whilst the records seem to point in favour of two home wins, neither side can afford to slip up as they chase a top two finish.
Third placed Ulster are also in action on Friday night, their bonus point win over Scarlets in their rearranged game last week has pulled them closer to the leaders as the battle for home advantage in the Play-Offs intensifies.
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