Greetings all, what an event today in Croke Park in Dublin, the first Leinster match at this venue since 2009 as the Northampton Saints attempted to achieve one of the best results in the history of English club rugby against the four-time champions.
During the Six Nations, following Ireland's win over Wales, I went to a GAA match between Dublin and Kerry in Croke Park, where I was on The Hill for a Dubs win, and I can happily confirm that it was a brilliant stadium.
The historical significance of playing at this ground has been well documented this week, with Northampton taking a history lesson on the importance of Croke Park to both the Irish people and Irish history.
But the actual game itself has the potential to be special. Leinster have sidelined La Rochelle after a string of defeats in Europe, including last year's agonizing final loss at the Aviva, and now that they've got that monkey off their backs and they're playing on home ground, you can see why they be a favorite.
Yet no one is sleeping at Northampton after a fantastic season in the Premier League and Europe. The quarter-final against the Bulls was a bit of a downer, but they have already beaten Irish opposition in this year's Champions Cup, beating Munster both at Thomond Park and in the round of 16 at Franklin's Gardens.
The Premier League leaders have added improved physicality and defense to their already impressive attack this season, with Alex Mitchell and Fin Smith running the show with plenty of flair.
Are Leinster too strong in terms of forward strength and depth on the bench? Possibly. But if any team can pull off a surprise considering how good they have been with the ball all season, it's Northampton.
There will be a lot of build-up before we start at 5:30 PM.