Free extension for sports fans

Leinster pull trigger on long-rumoured Andrew Porter switch for URC opener

Leinster have pulled the trigger on long rumoured move of Andrew Porter to the tighthead side of the scrum as Leo Cullen named his side for their URC opener against the Lions at Ellis Park.

Published: Thursday, 24 September 2026 at 2:13 PM
Leinster pull trigger on long-rumoured Andrew Porter switch for URC opener
Key Things to Know
  • Andrew Porter starts at tighthead prop for Leinster against the Lions at Ellis Park.
  • The move marks Porter's return to tighthead after switching to loosehead in the 2021-22 season.
  • Porter starts alongside loosehead Alex Usanov and hooker Gus McCarthy in the front row.
The Story in 60 Seconds

Leinster head coach Leo Cullen has named Andrew Porter at tighthead prop for their United Rugby Championship season opener against the Lions at Ellis Park. The selection marks a return to the No. 3 jersey for Porter, who previously played tighthead during his first four seasons with Leinster before shifting to loosehead in the 2021-22 campaign.

Porter lines up alongside loosehead Alex Usanov and hooker Gus McCarthy in the front row, while Max Deegan captains the team from the back row. Leinster senior coach Jacques Nienaber highlighted the attacking threat of the Lions, noting their competition-leading try and offload totals from last season.

Never Miss a Sports Update

Get the latest sports news and top stories from MySportsTab delivered straight to your inbox.

No spam. Just the latest sports news and updates.