Provincial battle.

Munster and Leinster will battle it out for a spot in the inaugural PRO14 final later today, with the former looking to spoil the latter’s party after their European triumph last weekend.

But just how special and important is their rivalry? For one – it’s been the driving force behind Ireland’s success over the last 15 years or so. As I touched on earlier this week, Ireland’s success both on a domestic and international level in that time period has been incredible.

And a lot of that is down to the rivalry that exists between the two provinces.

Leinster need Munster and Munster need Leinster. It’s as simple as that. Munster’s success in 06 and 08 was a catalyst for Leinster’s success from 09-12. It also brought on Ireland’s first Grand Slam 61 years. Last week’s success for Leinster may be a catalyst for Munster going forward.

Sure both sides are happy for each other when either achieves success, both fans and players alike. But deep down it hurts to see the other win.

It motivates. It fuels.

Look at all the successful teams over the years across all sports – there’s always that one rival. That rival that drives you to be a better team. It’s almost neccessary. And what Munster and Leinster have is special.

The respect between the fans and the players is second to none. But at the end of the day – you want your province to come out on top. That’s just natural. That’s sport. And it’s why we absolutely love it.

Munster will be fired up today.

Just like Leinster were in 2009.

Just like Munster were in 2011.

Today will be special. Today may spark another period of Irish dominance in. Today will do absolute wonders for Irish Rugby as a whole.

And I can’t bloody wait.