Lewis Ludlam to miss Investec Champions Cup semi-final due to injury

Northampton Saints captain Lewis Ludlam will be sidelined for his team’s Investec Champions Cup semi-final clash against Leinster this Saturday due to a shoulder injury. This setback comes as a blow to the Saints, who will also be without winger Ollie Sleightholme, who is out with a concussion.

In Ludlam’s absence, flanker Courtney Lawes will lead the team onto the field at Croke Park, Dublin. The Saints will also see Sam Graham stepping in at openside flanker and Juarno Augustus taking over at number eight.

Despite the absence of Sleightholme, Northampton will still have a strong back three with England full-back George Furbank, James Ramm, and George Hendy. Tommy Freeman, who impressed during the Six Nations, will partner with Fraser Dingwall in the midfield.

On the other side, Leinster will have their own injury concerns with Garry Ringrose and Hugo Keenan missing out. Ciaran Frawley and Jamie Osborne will continue at full-back and inside centre after their impressive performance in the quarter-final.

Both teams have been in top form, winning all their matches in the competition so far. However, Northampton will have a tough task ahead as they have only won one of their last 10 meetings with Leinster.

With both teams looking to secure a spot in the final, the stage is set for an exciting and competitive semi-final showdown at Croke Park. Fans can catch all the action live on BBC Radio 5 Sports Extra and follow live text updates on the BBC Sport website and app.