Sharks' Leinster import previews URC clash with Irish giants

One of the oldest rugby clubs in world rugby, having been founded in 1879 - 146 years ago - Leinster comes to Hollywoodbets Kings Park topping the URC log. However, they lost to the Bulls last weekend, their only defeat this season. Leinster will look to close out their two-match tour to South Africa on a strong note.

The Irish giants were Champions of Europe during a golden period between 2007 and 2013. Leinster won the 2009, 2011 and 2012 European Cup Finals and the 2013 Challenge Cup. Adding their domestic success, they captured seven trophies in seven seasons.

But after last week's loss to the Bulls, the Sharks can expect a backlash from this the most successful club in Irish history.

Someone with deep knowledge of Leinster's rugby DNA is Sharks lock Jason Jenkins, who featured for the Irish giants before making the move to Durban for the 2024 season and beyond.

Having made 39 appearances for Leinster across the URC and Champions Cup, he knows exactly what to expect.

"It's possible to beat them, we know what they bring, they're a quality side and everyone knows that," Jenkins told the Sharks website.

"Their players understand the game-plan, they execute well, so we're going to have to be very accurate this weekend in order to beat them.

"We have the right plans in place, everyone is on the same page and we've had a good week of training. We're really excited for this weekend."

Five rounds remain before the top eight venture into the playoffs and a top-four finish ensures home-ground advantage. The Sharks have built up a sizable buffer between themselves in fourth place and Cardiff, who are nine points adrift in fifth place. But a landmark win over Leinster will be first and foremost in the Sharks' mind.