5 key battles ahead of the Pro12 final

Dave Kilcoyne v Rossouw de Klerk

Without a doubt, the battle at scrum time will have a huge bearing on who takes home the Pro12 trophy on Saturday evening. After suffering a knee injury that kept him out for two months, Kilcoyne looks to be back to his best and was part of a Munster front row that dominated the scrum against the Ospreys last weekend. He comes up against South African Rossouw De Klerk who has enjoyed a fine first season with Glasgow and will look to earn his first piece of silverware with the Scottish club.

Paul O’Connell v Jonny Gray

The head to head in the second row is expected to be a great battle as the experienced Paul O’Connell, who is set to make his final appearance for Munster goes up against young Jonny Gray. O’Connell will have a tough days on his hands as he goes up against one of the best locks in Europe. At 21, Gray has a bright future ahead of him and if he has a career as successful as Paul O’Connell he will be a happy man. The battle between the two at lineout’s should also be an interesting watch as O’Connell looks to get the better of the future British and Irish Lions player.

CJ Stander v Josh Strauss

What a season these two players have had. CJ Stander has been one of Munster’s standout performers picking up seven man of the match awards while Strauss has been one of Glasgow’s most consistent performers all season. Both South African born but looking to play for Ireland and Scotland respectively, Stander and Strauss have been two of the most impressive number 8’s in the Pro12 this season and will look to use their ball carrying skills to get their team over the line and secure the Pro12 title.

Ian Keatley v Finn Russell

Two 10’s who are going into the final in different kinds of form. Finn Russell goes into the game after an impressive performance against Ulster in the semi’s as he held his nerve to secure them a spot in the final with a late conversion. As for Keatley he had a torrid time with the boot against the Ospreys and Munster could have been punished late on if it not for the TMO to spot a knock on from Rhys Webb. If Munster are going to win on Saturday they will need Keatley to produce a much better performance while Glasgow will look for more of the same from Finn Russell who has the experience of playing in a final before when Glasgow lost out to Leinster last season.

Felix Jones v Stuart Hogg

The head to head at 15 should be an interesting one with Felix Jones going up against Stuart Hogg. Scottish International Stuart Hogg will be a constant threat for Glasgow and Felix Jones will look to get the better off him in the air and keep Hogg quiet throughout the game. With Hogg known for his strong running and ability to find gaps in defence, Jones will have a tough day on his hands to keep the Scot quiet.