This weekend is crucial for Connacht and Ulster with regard to their Heineken Cup chances and both sides seem to be prepared for that. Ulster look like they are well on their way to having a big crowd at their game V Llanelli. Should Ulster win they will be certain of a Heineken Cup place next season, but if they lose, it is quite possible that they could miss out on the Heineken Cup. Coach Mark McCall has named a side that is unchanged from the one that lost last weekend to Cardiff.

Following Ireland’s dissapointing showing in this year’s Six Nations, many commentators had felt that the number of Irish Lions would be far lower than first expected. However Ireland instead following today’s announcement are represented well in the squad of 44. There are 11 Irish men on the squad and also Brian O’Driscoll will be the captain of the team when they play their first game against Argentina in Wales on May 23rd.