Former Ireland lock Donncha O’Callaghan believes Leinster’s attacking shortcomings – not their defence under Jacques Nienaber – are behind their recent failures.
The former Springbok World Cup-winning coach has become a lightning rod for criticism since joining Leinster in 2023.
The 53-year-old, a senior coach under head coach Leo Cullen, has come under renewed pressure after the Irish giants suffered a fourth Champions Cup final defeat in five years, losing heavily to Bordeaux-Bègles in Bilbao.
It led to Nienaber claiming in a press conference this week that he “does not feel valued” at Leinster amid the barrage of criticism.
NIENABER: People don’t value me here
However, O’Callaghan, a former British & Irish Lion who won two Champions Cups with Munster, insists criticism aimed at Nienaber is misplaced.
Speaking on The Offload podcast alongside Tommy Bowe, he argued that Leinster’s problems lie with an attack that has lost the cutting edge that once made the province Europe’s most feared side.
“You look at Bordeaux and the way they attack,” said O’Callaghan. “Leinster were the first team to play that type of rugby. They ran the ball from everywhere and were all about attack. Now their attack is so blunt. There’s nothing to it.
“They are all pointing fingers at Jacques, but that’s not where the problem is.
“Leinster get into good positions, but you know what’s coming. For a team that used to throw the ball around, there’s very little creativity.”
MORE: Leinster sweating on stars ahead of Stormers semi
O’Callaghan also questioned several selection decisions ahead of the final, particularly the decision to leave veteran Ireland prop Tadhg Furlong on the bench.
“The one thing you have to do is nail selection,” he said. “Everyone talks about Jordie Barrett being left out previously, but for me not starting Tadhg Furlong was an even bigger mistake.”
POLL: Who will contest URC final?
Photo: Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images
The post ‘Nienaber not where Leinster’s problem is’ appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.
Former Ireland lock Donncha O’Callaghan believes Leinster’s attacking shortcomings – not their defence under Jacques Nienaber – are behind their recent failures.
The post ‘Nienaber not where Leinster’s problem is’ appeared first on SA Rugby magazine. Read More
