Guinness PRO14: Players To Watch (Friday)

Tadhg Beirne - Munster 

The Ireland lock makes his return to action in Wales tonight as Munster attempt to cement themselves at the top of Conference A. Beirne missed the opening rounds of Six Nations action with a knee issue but lines up alongside Billy Holland in the engine room against the Ospreys at the Liberty Stadium. Beirne will be hoping to impress Ireland selectors and force his way back into Joe Schmidt’s plans for Ireland’s Round 4 battle with France at the Aviva Stadium. 

Stafford McDowall - Glasgow Warriors 

The young Glasgow centre has made 8 appearances for Dave Rennie’s side this season and received a call-up to the Scotland squad ahead of the 2019 Six Nations. He signed his first professional deal in December and captained Scotland U20 last year. He lines up tonight in an exciting centre partnership with another Glasgow Academy product in Patrick Kelly as they both go in search of their first senior try. 

Conor Fitzgerald - Connacht 

A very impressive showing in his previous away fixture against Cardiff Blues, Fitzgerald deputises for Ireland fly-half, Jack Carty, who is away on International duty, in the No. 10 shirt for Connacht against Glasgow Warriors at Scotstoun. Armed with a strong left foot kicking option and assisted by 150-cap Kieran Marmion at scrum-half, the former Munster underage talent has the keys to the Connacht backline as they go in search of an important away win to get themselves closer to the play-offs. 

Ronan Kelleher - Leinster Rugby

Another product of the world famous Leinster Academy set-up, the former Ireland U20 will start at hooker on debut for the Irish province against the Southern Kings. The Lansdowne club man will become the 54th player to represent Leinster this season and is currently in his second year at the Leinster Academy. A very good athlete blessed with the ball skills in the same ilk as Malcom Mark, the highly touted prospect is one to keep an eye on in the coming years.