AS THE CRO FLIES

Blues ace Sean back in business

Leinster were last crowned European champions in 2012, Cronin’s late try completed a 42-14 rout over Ulster.

“While his exploits in this game evoke fond memories, he acknowledges that year’s semi-final with Bordeaux is a much better reference point for Saturday’s game. “I’ve actually watched that game on Youtube a couple of times. That’s a pretty good reference point to go to for the intensity we’re going to have in Bilbao.

“We don’t know what kind of crowd, but we’re hoping Leinster will have a huge following going there. It [Bordeaux] was a great atmosphere to play in. It was hugely satisfying to go over there and put in a display like that and get to another final.”

As he turns 32 today, Cronin has become one of the elder statesmen within the Leinster squad.

He said: “I looked to have more consistency in general so I could bring the whole package together. In terms of that, I think I’m probably performing to the best of my career in terms of my scrummaging.”