Johnny Ventisei Debuts as 11 Scotland Members Join Leinster Squad
Glasgow Warriors return to Scotstoun to face Leinster in a match expected to sell out. Kick-off is scheduled for Saturday at 5.30pm. This will be Warriors’ first home meeting with Leinster since October 2023.
Coach and build-up
Head coach Franco Smith warned his players to be at their best. He praised Leinster’s long-standing European pedigree and squad depth. Smith also highlighted a young player’s readiness for a first senior appearance.
Team news and absentees
Several frontline Scotland internationals are rested for the game. Zander Fagerson, Max Williamson, Matt Fagerson, Rory Darge, Jack Dempsey, Sione Tuipulotu and Huw Jones are not selected.
Club captain Kyle Steyn is sidelined with a foot injury. Other unavailable players include Ben Afshar, Gregor Brown, Scott Cummings, Jamie Dobie, Nathan McBeth, Duncan Munn, Charlie Savala and Tavi Tuipulotu.
Glasgow Warriors starting XV and replacements
- J McKay
- K Rowe
- J Ventisei
- S McDowall (captain)
- O Smith
- D Lancaster
- G Horne
- P Schickerling
- G Hiddleston
- F Richardson
- A Craig
- A Samuel
- E Ferrie
- S Vailanu
- M Duncan
Replacements: S Stephen, R Sutherland, S Talakai, J Oguntibeju, A Miller, A Fraser, J Oliver, A Hastings.
Leinster selection and returns
Leinster welcome back Ireland full-back Hugo Keenan. Keenan returns from hip and thumb issues and last featured after scoring the decisive Lions try in Australia.
Prop Alex Usanov earns his first start at this level. He previously made three appearances from the bench.
- H Keenan
- J Kenny
- R Ioane
- R Henshaw
- J O’Brien
- S Prendergast
- L McGrath (captain)
- A Usanov
- R Kelleher
- T Clarkson
- R Snyman
- B Deeny
- J Conan
- W Connors
- J Culhane
Replacements: J McKee, J Cahir, R Slimani, C O’Tighearnaigh, M Deegan, S Penny, F Gunne, S Frawley.
Match context
Leinster arrive with considerable international talent across the park. Names such as Robbie Henshaw, Rieko Ioane and RG Snyman underline their firepower.
The fixture will draw attention online. Keywords likely to surface include “Johnny Ventisei debuts” and searches for “11 Scotland Members Join Leinster Squad.” Filmogaz.com will cover the outcome and key moments.
The teams are set and the stage is ready. Expect a high-quality contest under Scotstoun lights.
