The competition is a hugely important development tool in Ireland

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Blackrock's Jack Angulo lifts the 2024 Leinster Rugby Schools Senior Cup trophy. Photograph: Tom Maher/©INPHO
Blackrock's Jack Angulo lifts the 2024 Leinster Rugby Schools Senior Cup trophy. Photograph: Tom Maher/©INPHO

It’s that time of year when Schools rugby, the single most important development tool in Ireland, kicks into gear with the Senior Cup in all four provinces.

Des Berry is the authoritative voice when it comes to covering the Leinster Schools Senior Cup. He joins John O’Sullivan and Nathan Johns to look at this year’s draw. Who are the young names we should look out for? Who have been the best schoolboy players down through the years? Are Blackrock College and St Michael’s once again the favourites this year, or can another school spring a surprise?

We also look at competitions in Munster and Connacht which have already gotten underway, while we chat through the decision to play an Ulster Senior Cup tie as a curtain raiser to a senior provincial game.

Produced by John Casey.