How are the Irish provinces shaping up for Europe?

BBC Sport NI assesses how the four Irish provinces are tracking before their European campaigns begin on Saturday.

By Jonathan Bradley · BBC

Published: Thursday, 15 October 2026 at 7:15 AM

Key Things to Know

BBC Sport examines how Irish provinces Leinster, Munster, Connacht, and Ulster are prepared for the European season.
Leo Cullen enters his final season leading Leinster after losing key players like James Lowe and Rieko Ioane.
Munster must cope with the early absence of Jack Crowley as they aim for Champions Cup knockout progression.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Irish provinces Leinster, Munster, and Connacht are preparing to begin the 2026-27 Investec Champions Cup campaign, which kicks off in October with the road to the final in Lyon. Leinster enter Leo Cullen's final season seeking a fifth title following departures such as James Lowe and Rieko Ioane. Meanwhile, Munster aim to rebound after dropping into the Challenge Cup last season.

Connacht face a challenging pool featuring past champions including Toulouse, Saracens, and La Rochelle under head coach Stuart Lancaster. Elsewhere, Ulster will compete in the Challenge Cup for a second consecutive season under Richie Murphy, targeting a return to top-tier European competition.

Read the full article on BBC

How are the Irish provinces shaping up for Europe?

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