Inter-pros.

Connacht have John Muldoon the perfect send-off in Galway this afternoon as the western province put seven tries past their provincial rivals in a 47-10 win.

Ulster and Leinster meanwhile are approaching the 15th minute in their encounter, with Ulster holding a slight 10-7 lead at Thomond Park. The northern province need a bonus-point win and an Edinburgh loss to sneak into a play-off spot.

But the huge talking point today regarding those two fixtures – surrounds Ireland’s player policy and their rules and regulations regarding recruitment in recent seasons.

Every single player togging out for the four provinces today is Irish or potentially eligible to play for Ireland under the residency rule. Say what you want about Ireland’s policy, but with a Grand Slam in the bag and stats like that – it’s clearly working.

David Nucifora, Joe Schmidt and the four provinces deserve a serious pat on the back.

[Balls.ie]