The Final Round of the BBC Rugby Union News’ United Rugby Championship Regular Season Kicks Off
The final round of the United Rugby Championship (URC) regular season is set to kick off on Friday night, with two highly anticipated matchups. Glasgow Warriors will host Zebre Parma, while Leinster will face Connacht in an intense inter-provincial derby.
Glasgow Warriors vs. Zebre Parma
In the Glasgow Warriors vs. Zebre Parma clash, the home side has received a timely boost with the return of Scotland stars Richie Gray and Huw Jones. The duo have been sidelined due to injuries sustained during the Six Nations, but are now fit to take the field. Duncan Weir, set to make his 150th appearance for Glasgow, will start at fly-half, partnering Jamie Dobie in the half-backs.
Zebre Parma, led by captain Luca Morisi, will look to upset the hosts at Scotstoun Stadium. The Italian side’s backline features the likes of Jacopo Trulla, Pierre Bruno, and Simone Gesi, while their forward pack is anchored by Davide Ruggeri, Bautista Stavile, and Giacomo Ferrari.
Leinster vs. Connacht
In the Leinster vs. Connacht matchup, the home team has made several changes to their starting lineup. Scott Penny will captain the side, while veteran Rhys Ruddock is set to make his 229th appearance in blue. The midfield partnership of Jamie Osborne and Ciarán Frawley, who shone in the Investec Champions Cup final, will look to guide Leinster to victory.
Connacht, on the other hand, will be led by their captain, Jack Carty. The Irish province will celebrate milestone appearances for Shane Mallon, who is set to make his debut, and Dave Heffernan, who will play his 200th game for the club.
Both matches promise to be fiercely contested, as the teams look to secure their positions in the URC quarter-finals. Fans of BBC Rugby Union News can look forward to a thrilling night of rugby union action.
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