We weren't expecting this.
With only a week to go until Munster and Leinster take to the field in their mouth-watering clashes against Saracens and Clermont Auvergne, respectively, excitement is growing.
However, there is still the small matter of interprovincial derbies to take care of first.
Generally, a week before a European Cup semi-final, you would expect the teams involved to rest their front liners for the next fixture.
If you take a look at Saracens and Leinster's starting XVs for their domestic fixtures this weekend, it is clear to see that they have an eye on next week.
https://twitter.com/leinsterrugby/status/852839366930046977
As is evident, Tadhg Furlong, Jack McGrath, Devin Toner, Dan Leavy, Jack Conan, Jonathan Sexton, Robbie Henshaw, Garry Ringrose and Isa Nacewa are all absent.
This also applies to Saracens.
https://twitter.com/alexshawsport/status/852843947827265537
Maro Itoje, Mako Vunipola, Billy Vunipola, Owen Farrell and Chris Ashton are all absent for the reigning English and European champions for their clash against Northampton.
Munster on the other hand, have gone for a different tactic for their derby game with Ulster at Thomond Park.
It is pretty much full-strength.
Just look at this team.
https://twitter.com/Munsterrugby/status/852841061647101952
Besides the injury absences of Conor Murray and CJ Stander, this is pretty close to full-strength from Munster.
Perhaps it is in Rassie Erasmus' thinking that they want to wrap up a home semi-final so they can fully concentrate on Saracens at the weekend.
Regardless, Munster fans will be hoping that there are no injuries to come out of the clash with Ulster.
Especially to key men like Tyler Bleyendaal.
In more positive news, Ian Keatley returns to the bench after missing the last number of weeks with a troublesome knee injury.
It should be a great occasion nonetheless, especially when you have an Ulster who are desperate for a victory.
