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Scarlets vs Leinster: Dublin Clash Tests Welsh Resolve

BBC Sport •
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Scarlets face a daunting challenge against Leinster in Dublin, with head coach Glenn Delaney comparing the fixture to an international Test match. The Welsh side makes five changes from their 36-17 win over Zebre, with Joe Hawkins starting at fly-half and Dane Blacker at scrum-half. Hooker Harry Thomas earns his second United Rugby Championship start of the season.

Delaney emphasized the scale of the task, noting Leinster's squad is filled with internationals preparing for European competition. Despite recent Welsh region victories over Leinster, including Scarlets' win in Llanelli last season, the Dublin venue presents a formidable challenge. The Irish province fields a strong team led by captain Josh van der Flier.

With Scarlets' playoff hopes fading, focus shifts to performance and building momentum for next season. Centre Joe Roberts acknowledged the quality gap but stressed the importance of competing at the highest level. The match serves as a benchmark for Welsh rugby against one of Europe's elite clubs.