Connacht Rugby turn focus to URC clash with Leinster

It will be very much a test of the squad depth of both sides with Connacht having eight players in Irish camp and 17 from Leinster on international duty.

But Connacht have the likes of the experienced Heffernan and several more seasoned players to call on and Stuart Lancaster will be able to field a strong side, having strengthened the side since he arrived by giving them decent play-time.

Heffernan made his season bow against Zebre after recovering from injury and the Ballina native marked his return with two tries in the 48-27 win over the Italians.

“Just delighted to be back. It was nice to get a couple of scores, I think that's double my tally from last year!

“It's tough obviously when you've been out watching the boys last week as well but you know, knowing that you were getting involved last week, it's a bit of a buzz to be back in the green jersey. It's class.

“It was obviously unbelievable watching the game against Saracens but you just wish you were out there,” said the 35-year-old.

He has plenty to witness in the opening games of the season, from the brilliant attacking rugby to the need to tighten up at the back.

“I think it's getting the balance between playing the attacking rugby we love to play and the pressure game at times. I think we got away from it at times, it got a little bit loose and that played into Zebre’s hands and they took advantage of every opportunity they got. So, we've got to work on there.”

Heffernan knows that both Connacht and Leinster will be able to field strong sides despite so many away on international duty from both sides.

But that opens the door for others to impress and having missed the opening four games with a calf injury, former Irish international Heffernan, who has seven caps, is itching for action.

And having barged over for a brace of tries against the Italians, he’s hoping to wrap up this block of games with a win over the champions.

Lancaster, who spent seven seasons with Leinster, said it is a huge game for them.

“It is a huge game for a whole variety of reasons, not least the league table, never mind anything else,” he said.

“It’s our first interpro and we know from two years ago we didn’t get any return on our interpros. We did a little bit better last season but we didn’t manage to beat Leinster and we know they are the bench mark really.

“Obviously I know them well, hugely respectful for the coaching team and the players as well. It’s a game we are hugely exciting about and we know we will have to be at our best,” added Lancaster.