THE Leinster management have not ruled out South African duo, hooker Richardt Strauss and lock Steven Sykes, for Saturday's meeting with the Blues at the Cardiff City stadium, writes GAVIN CUMMISKEY.

Strauss broke his nose against Connacht on New Year’s Day, while Sykes has been plagued by knee problems since arriving from Natal last summer.

A full-strength side is expected to be named later this week as the Irish Player Management Scheme has released Mike Ross, Seán O’Brien, Cian Healy, Jamie Heaslip, Rob Kearney, Eoin Reddan and Jonathan Sexton. Kevin McLaughlin is also expected to return.

There was no update yesterday from the management with regards to Brian O’Driscoll’s recuperation, despite reports he was ahead of his six-month recovery schedule after shoulder surgery.