Leinster injury update ahead of Pro 14 final

Leinster hope that key men Johnny Sexton, Dan Leavy and Isa Nacewa will overcome injury to feature in Saturday's Pro 14 final against Scarlets at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin.

Leavy and Sexton both missed last weekend's semi-final victory over Munster with calf and hamstring injuries, while Isa Nacewa played the opening forty before being replaced at half-time.

Athlone native Robbie Henshaw suffered a knee injury in Bilbao and has been rated as doubtful to be fit for Saturday's clash against the reigning Pro 12 champions.

“It’s doubtful Robbie is going to get there but we’ll do our best to get them all on the field if we can. It’s probably a little bit optimistic [to think that Henshaw will play]. Of all of them, he’s the one that is pretty doubtful.” said Leinster assistant coach John Fogarty today.

Leinster captain Isa Nacewa will play his final game for the province on Saturday before he retires from professional rugby and will be given every every opportunity to prove his fitness ahead of Saturday.

“Isa is sore at the moment but we’re hopeful that he can get himself through the week and out onto the field.

“He’s obviously very important to us on the field but spiritually, to the group, he’s extremely important and everyone is pulling for him to get on the field. We’re hopeful he gets there.

“He will do everything he can, he’s a remarkable guy. He’s the kind of guy who can have very little physical prep but still get himself in a very good place to be able to perform for the team.”

Leinster will able to further gauge the fitness levels of their injured trio tomorrow when they complete a pitch session in UCD.

“Johnny had to be managed last week, but again we’re hopeful he can get through the week,” said Fogarty. “We’re not on the field until tomorrow, so we’ll see how he goes and it’s the same for Dan Leavy – he picked up a hamstring last week.

“Again, we’re hopeful that Dan will get through the week. At this stage, we’re not certain whether they will or won’t.”

Credit: www.the42.ie