Three-time European Cup rugby winners Leinster booked their place in the final of the European Challenge on Saturday with a 44-16 thumping of holders Biarritz.

Leinster, who this season became the first holders of the European Cup to go out at the group stage, will play Stade Francais in the final back in Dublin on May 17.

It could well provide the perfect backdrop for legendary centre Brian O’Driscoll to announce his much-anticipated retirement, although he is almost certain to tour with the British and Irish Lions in June.

For Biarritz, who stayed in touch until the final minute of the first-half, it means they will miss out on European competition for the first time since the 1999/2000 campaign as they have no hopes of reaching the French Top 14 play-offs this term.