Fintan Gunne in Line for First Champions Cup Start as Leinster Head to Clermont

Fintan Gunne could be handed his first Champions Cup start for Leinster when Leo Cullen names his side to face Clermont this weekend.

The 23-year-old former St Michael’s student has taken on a far bigger role in Dublin following Luke McGrath’s departure at the end of last season. With Ireland star Jamison Gibson-Park managing his workload after a recent groin issue and Cormac Foley nursing a calf problem, Gunne is now front of the line for the 9 jersey.

The Terenure RFC half-back has been in sharp form, announcing himself in the season opener against the Lions in Johannesburg by scoring a clinical first-half hat-trick. While he came off the bench against Clermont in Europe last year, starting a full Champions Cup pool match in France represents a massive step up.

Leo Cullen will release his matchday 23 on Friday at midday. If Gunne gets the nod alongside Sam Prendergast, it gives Leinster fans a look at the province's long-term half-back partnership on the big stage.