Munster-Leinster rivalry stronger than ever - Graham Rowntree

Munster head coach Graham Rowntree has hailed the historic rivalry with Leinster as stronger and more intense than ever, following closely contested encounters in recent seasons.

While Leinster claimed both victories in last year’s Interprovincial clashes, each match showcased the fierce competition and mutual respect between the two sides.

In their first meeting last season, 49,246 fans filled the Aviva Stadium as Leinster edged out a thrilling 21-16 win. The rematch at a sold-out Thomond Park saw Leinster narrowly secure a 9-3 victory in tough conditions.

Despite three of the last four encounters going Leinster’s way, each game has been decided by just a single score—highlighting the competitive nature of the rivalry. This marks a stark contrast to previous seasons, where six of the prior seven matches were won by double-digit margins, with Munster winning only once in that period.

"It’s not bad for a club game, that, is it?," Rowntree said.

"Tingles in my spine when you say that, and we certainly spoke about it today, the history around this stadium and this fixture."

Since his arrival in Limerick in late 2019, Rowntree has gained a deeper understanding of the intensity and significance of the Munster-Leinster rivalry. He shared his insights into the evolution of the competition and the challenges posed by Leinster’s quality squad.

"No, I never realised. You don’t get it until you’re in it," he said about the rivalry about both the sides.

"I always remember speaking to Stuart Lancaster. He came over here [to Leinster] before I did and he was telling me about how he navigates moving over and back, and travelling, and he said: ‘You realise we can never speak again’, after I joined Munster and he was with Leinster.

"I said: ‘What do you mean?’ But I get it now. There’s an intense rivalry there and a very respectful rivalry. They are a great team, a great team; achieved good things."