Champions Cup Showdown: Peter O'Mahony Leads Munster Against Struggling La Rochelle

Peter O'Mahony makes his long-awaited return to Munster's lineup after missing action since Ireland's Six Nations finale against Italy on March 15. The 35-year-old flanker brings crucial leadership and physicality to the back row.
Injury Comebacks:
- Wing Andrew Smith and full-back Thaakir Abrahams (making his first appearance since December) return to bolster Munster's backline.
- Lock Jean Kleyn adds experience to the pack, while John Hodnett (previously doubtful with a thigh issue) joins O'Mahony and Gavin Coombes in a dynamic back-row trio.
Absences: Centre Alex Nankivell remains suspended after Munster's failed appeal against his red card. Sean O'Brien replaces him in midfield.

The two-time defending champions (2022, 2023) are in poor form, winless in their last eight matches (7 losses, 1 draw). Scrum-half Tawera Kerr-Barlow returns, but coach Ronan O'Gara faces an uphill battle against his former club.
Historical Context: This marks the first competitive meeting between the sides, adding intrigue to the knockout-stage clash.

La Rochelle:

Starters: Leyds; Nowell, Thomas, Seuteni, Bosmorin; West, Kerr-Barlow; Wardi, Bourgarit, Atonio; Lavault, Skelton; Botia, Jegou, Alldritt (capt).
Bench: Lespiaucq; Kaddouri, Juntlia, Dillane, Cancoriet, Haddad, Hastoy, Favre.

Munster:

Starters: Abrahams; Nash, Farrell, O’Brien, Smith; Crowley, Casey; Loughman, Barron, Jager; Kleyn, Beirne (capt); O’Mahony, Hodnett, Coombes.
Bench: N Scannell, J Wycherley, Archer, F Wycherley, Ahern, Murray, R Scannell, Kendellen.