Glasgow Warriors Return Key Players for Connacht Quarter-Final Clash

Glasgow Warriors have recalled British and Irish Lions second row Scott Cummings for their URC play-off quarter-final against Connacht at Scotstoun Stadium, marking his first appearance in four months following a calf injury suffered during Scotland's Six Nations campaign. The fixture sees both Irish and Scottish sides deploy significant lineup adjustments, with Connacht coach Stuart Lancaster introducing five changes to bolster his forward pack for the playoff encounter.

Glasgow's Injury Recovery Boost

Cummings, who last featured for Franco Smith's side in January, replaces the injured Gregor Brown in the second row after suffering his injury in March's victory over France. Alongside his return, Glasgow have restored back-row regulars Matt Fagerson and Rory Darge following their omission from last weekend's away win at Ulster. Patrick Schickerling starts at loosehead prop, having been rested for that same fixture. However, hooker Jamie Dobie remains unavailable due to ongoing injury concerns.

Connacht Welcomes Forward Reinforcements

Connacht's squad changes centre on forward reinforcements, with hooker Dylan Tierney-Martin returning to replace Eoin de Buitléar and prop Sam Illo stepping in for Finlay Bealham. In the back row, Paul Boyle assumes the number eight position previously held by injured Sean Jansen, while Darragh Murray partners Josh Murphy in the second row after Joe Joyce drops out. The sole backline change sees John Devine move to outside centre in place of injured Harry West, positioning him alongside Bundee Aki in the midfield.

Lancaster's squad also benefits from Dave Heffernan's return to the bench, though Jack Carty remains unavailable for personal reasons, with Hugh Gavin named as replacement fly-half cover. Captain Cian Prendergast leads a back row combining experience and fresh selection, with Shamus Hurley-Langton completing the trio.