Rugby:Stan Wright is in line to make his first competitive appearance since August and Shane Horgan could also return to action for Leinster as the rugby focus shifts back to the Magners League this weekend.

Joe Schmidt’s side are set to be without all the Ireland internationals who started last Sunday’s Six Nations match against France, although a final decision on their availability won’t be taken until later in the week, but should be able to call upon replacements Eoin Reddan and Leo Cullen.

And they could be joined by both Wright and Horgan for Saturday’s match against the Cardiff Blues. Wright has not featured since rupturing his Achilles at the start of the season while Horgan is nearing a return after picking up a knee injury in January.

“Physically, he’s in great nick,” Leinster’s forward’s coach Jono Gibbes said of Wright today. “He has been so disciplined in his rehab and he has done everything that he possibly could to present himself back in the best possible shape, so it’s a credit to him.

“Mentally, I think he’s pretty hungry. I know how excited and keen he is to get involved and I think he adds leadership, experience and a lot of enthusiasm. It will be great to have his presence back on the playing field because he’s a good character (who provides) a bit of steel for our pack.”

Cardiff today announced that Wales international Sam Warburton has agreed a contract extension the Blues. The 22-year-old back-row forward made his regional debut away to Edinburgh in 2009 and has gone on to make 36 appearances for his hometown club.

“I’m absolutely delighted to be staying here,” said Warburton, who was named man of the match in Wales’ Six Nations win over Scotland at the weekend. “I’m a Cardiff boy, born and bred, and to be offered and sign a new deal is fantastic. I’m only 22 years old and feel there’s a lot more to achieve.”