Nathan and Gordon are joined by James Downey who played for both teams during his career

Listen | 35:17
Leinster’s Jonathan  Sexton  celebrates scoring a try with Shane Horgan during the 2011 Heineken Cup Final victory over Northampton Saints at the Millennium Stadium  in Cardiff, Wales. Photograph:  David Rogers/Getty Images
Leinster’s Jonathan Sexton celebrates scoring a try with Shane Horgan during the 2011 Heineken Cup Final victory over Northampton Saints at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff, Wales. Photograph: David Rogers/Getty Images

Just one Irish province is in action this weekend, with Leinster taking on Northampton in the Champions Cup semi-finals.

Joining Gordon D’Arcy and Nathan Johns on today’s episode is a man who played for both sides in his career, James Downey. A centre back in his day, Downey lined up directly opposite D’Arcy in the infamous comeback final in 2011, Leinster overturning a 22-6 half-time deficit to win their second Heineken Cup.

The story of Leinster’s turnaround has been well told at this stage, but Downey gives a unique perspective from the Northampton side. Where did it all go wrong? As a player who left Leinster early in his career in search of opportunities, not to mention his current role as an agent, Downey also provides a unique perspective on a current hot topic in Irish rugby; player movement and the talent backlog at Leinster.

Produced by John Casey.

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