Leinster Reopens Laya Arena Against Cardiff in URC Return

Leinster host Cardiff at the Laya Arena in Dublin as the United Rugby Championship sides meet in a major Round Three fixture, with Wales forward Taulupe Faletau returning from injury and Leinster reopening their renovated home venue after more than two years away.

According to BBC Sport, Faletau starts for Cardiff after his last appearance in March was ended by a shoulder injury following previous knee and calf issues. Cardiff have made seven changes after wins over Scarlets and Zebre.

Cardiff head coach Corniel van Zyl welcomed Faletau's return but noted the number eight was managing a minor issue before the match.

"It is great to have him back," said Corniel van Zyl, Cardiff head coach.

"He's struggling actually with a little bit of a niggle, but I'm pretty confident he'll get through to the game," said Corniel van Zyl, Cardiff head coach.

Cardiff forward Josh McNally said the experienced player could quickly regain his form after a long absence. McNally also viewed the Leinster match as a chance to measure Cardiff's development away from home.

"The guy can have six months out, come back and play 80 minutes, get man of the match and score two tries. Everyone knows what he can bring," said Josh McNally, Cardiff forward.

"There's obviously a challenge, but we're excited for the opportunity," said Josh McNally, Cardiff forward.

Leinster return to the Laya Arena after a redevelopment that followed two seasons at Aviva Stadium. According to RTE, the venue now has a capacity of 20,500 after a €52m upgrade, including reconstruction of the Anglesea Stand.

Leinster head coach Leo Cullen named a new starting lineup after defeats to Lions and Sharks in South Africa. Ireland internationals including Dan Sheehan, Tadhg Furlong, Joe McCarthy, James Ryan, Jack Conan, Garry Ringrose and Hugo Keenan return.

Cullen said the renovated ground retains a distinctive identity and is an important part of Leinster's connection with supporters.

"It's a very unique ground. It's an insane amount of rugby clubs in a very small area, and then we're playing in the showjumping arena, playing rugby," said Leo Cullen, Leinster head coach.

Cardiff enter the match after two opening victories, while Leinster have collected three bonus points despite losing their first two games. The Irish province have also lost only one of their last 18 matches at the Laya Arena before its redevelopment.