MATT HEALY WILL make his first start for Connacht in Saturday’s RaboDirect PRO12 clash with Leinster at the RDS.
The 23-year-old joined Eric Elwood’s side earlier this season and has impressed with the Connacht Eagles in the British and Irish Cup.
Elwood has made four changes to the side for the derby clash, with the Westerners hoping to complete a double over the European champions after winning 34-6 at the Sportsground in September.
Eoin Griffin resumes his centre partnership with Dave McSharry, while Danie Poolman moves out to the right wing.
Denis Buckley comes into the front row alongside Jason Harris-Wright and Nathan White, while the returning Michael Swift partners George Naoupu in the second row.
Connacht team v Leinster: Robbie Henshaw; Danie Poolman, Eoin Griffin, Dave McSharry, Matt Healy; Dan Parks, Kieran Marmion; Denis Buckley, Jason Harris-Wright, Nathan White; Michael Swift, George Naoupu; Andrew Browne, Johnny O’Connor, Eoin McKeon.Replacements: Ethienne Reynecke, Brett Wilkinson, Ronan Loughney, Mick Kearney, Eoghan Grace, Paul O’Donohoe, Matthew Jarvis, Tiernan O’Halloran.
