RICHARDT STRAUSS SERVED a notice of intent in only his third game of the 2012/13 season when he scored a try in a home win over Munster.
He displaced Rory Best in the Ireland team, making his debut against his native South Africa, and was mentioned as a good bet for a place on the Lions tour to Australia.
Six months and one knee injury later, Strauss is preparing to face Munster at the return Pro12 tie in Thomond Park and is determined to finish his provincial season with some silverware.
Strauss told TheScore.ie, “Injury, unfortunately, is something that happens. I’ve been lucky by not having any major injuries to date in my career so it is something you have to take on the chin. I’m delighted to be back on the pitch at this stage.
[Missing the Six Nations] was tough. Every player just wants to be back on the pitch. It gets frustrating to come in and do gym work – the same stuff – every single day.”
Strauss was impressed by the ‘intensity and physicality’ Munster displayed in the second half of their Heineken Cup win against Harlequins. His return, and the expected starts for Brian O’Driscoll and Jonathan Sexton this weekend, will give Leinster a good shot at a win that will ensure a playoff spot.
He added, “Every time that happened before [this season], someone else got injured. Hopefully everyone can stay fit as it would be great to have everyone back in the mix.”
Paul O’Connell closes in on Richardt Strauss. (©INPHO/Billy Stickland)
While Leinster are undoubtedly boosted by the return of Strauss, a player Springbok captain Jean de Villers refers to as ‘an extra loosie’, Munster are returning to full strength.
Keith Earls [shoulder injury] is hoping to make the bench for the league tie, while Doug Howlett will be eager to get a start on the right wing. Paul O’Connell’s comeback is taking on legendary status and the lock will be targeting wins over Leinster and Clermont to drive his team on and, while he is at it, put his hands up for Lions selection.
Leinster scrum coach Greg Feek spoke about the positive impact both Strauss and O’Connell bring to their respective teams.
He commented, “There’s a massive height difference between those them. They’re very influential, those two. Strauss has is obviously vital for our set-piece. Having two months out, and not being able to run much, he’s still getting his match fitness.
Paulie O’Connell, he just seems to be hitting his straps and going from strength to strength. There were danger signs against Connacht and Glasgow.”
O’Connell, Feek added, did some serious damage to Harlequins in the Heineken Cup. Leinster have been warned.
*TheScore.ie will be liveblogging all the action at Thomond Park from 6pm on Saturday.
