Ryan Baird: Derbies were ideal prep for La Rochelle rematch

Ryan Baird says Leinster's recent Interpro wins against Munster and Connacht have been the perfect preparation for his side ahead of their daunting Investec Champions Cup opener away to La Rochelle on Sunday.

The Pool 4 meeting at Stade Marcel Deflandre is the standout game of the opening weekend, where Ronan O'Gara's defending champions host the team they beat in each of the last two finals.

As well as those two deciders in Marseille and Dublin, Leinster were also beaten away to La Rochelle in the semi-finals of 2021.

And while many would suggest it would be a significant monkey off the back for Leinster to gain some revenge in this weekend's pool meeting, Baird wasn't in the mood to look back in anger when he spoke to the media earlier this week.

"We'll be happy if we win," was his short response to being asked if a victory on Sunday would be a "significant" one for his side.

The Stade Marcel Deflandre may only hold 16,000 supporters, but the defending champions boast a formidable home record, winning all eight of their games at the ground in their two title-winning seasons.

But after coming through two big derby wins against Munster in recent weeks, Baird (below) believes his side will have no issue getting to the emotional pitch of the game.

"I'll tell you, the last two weeks have been incredible preparation for us.

"Pretty much sold out Aviva against Munster and then playing in the Sportsground last week against Connacht was incredible, an incredible atmosphere, very hostile away from home, which is what we'll experience against La Rochelle.

"We've been tested, for sure, this season. We're really looking forward to this challenge.

"I think any game away from home in a hostile crowd is going to be a challenge, but we've played