Leinster rocked by late injury change a week before Champions Cup final

Leinster have suffered a shock injury in the build up to their final URC game, with the Champions Cup final against Bordeaux Begles just a week away.

Tommy O’Brien was due to start the game against the Ospreys, but was ruled out just before kick-off and replaced by James Lowe in the starting lineup.

Impact of the Ospreys game

Entering the final round of the URC regular season Leinster had the opportunity to finish in the top two which would give them a home quarterfinal and semifinal if they progressed that far.

⚡ Squad update: James Lowe comes in to replace Tommy O'Brien in today's starting XV and Hugh Cooney has been added to the matchday 23.#LEIvOSP #NeverLessThanEverything pic.twitter.com/RNs8pO5Kp8

— Leinster Rugby (@leinsterrugby) May 16, 2026

O’Brien’s Leinster form this year

Tommy O’Brien has been a key figure for Leinster this year and was nominated for Leinster Fans’ Player of the Year, with the public vote open.

🔷 Supporters Player of the Season nominee: Tommy O'Brien

Nine tries, 626 metres carried and 37 defenders beaten — Tommy O'Brien has been a destructive force on the wing all season 🏃💨

🗳️ Vote now for the chance to win a jersey signed by the winner: https://t.co/NDsluRRMb7 pic.twitter.com/mSyvUxdTMd

— Leinster Rugby (@leinsterrugby) May 13, 2026

He has scored nine tries this year and been a force to be reckoned with this year. He continued his form for Ireland and was an exciting addition to the team, particularly at Twickenham when Ireland defeated England.
Leinster fans will now look for news on his availability for the Champions Cup final next week.