Proving a giant among Racing’s galacticos

are peaking for each game. He brings a little bit of an Irish attitude into rucks and mauls to make sure everyone is digging in.”

The French side are back in their second Champions Cup final after they were beaten by Saracens two years ago, and while the bookies continue to offer a 10-point spread in Leinster’s favour, Rokocoko isn’t surprised that people are still underestimating his side.

“It’s normal for us, I understand why, we have been underdogs before, and pretty much scraped through each game,” he admitted.

“We like that role, because we’ve been under the radar since the beginning of season. The confidence in the team is growing.”

Meanwhile, Andy Farrell heads the list of Ireland’s assistant coaches who have extended their contracts until 2020.

Greg Feek will shortly join Japanese club side Ricoh, but will also maintain his scrum coach role with Ireland until after the 2019 World Cup.

Defence coach Farrell, forwards specialist Simon Easterby and skills coordinator Richie Murphy, however, have all signed contract extensions to run until 2020.

Boss Joe Schmidt’s contract expires after the 2019 World Cup, and former England coach Farrell’s new deal could leave him well positioned to take the helm in time. Leading by example: Racing 92’s Donnacha Ryan