Rokocoko Returning To Thomond Park

A member of the All Blacks side that narrowly defeated Munster at Thomond Park in 2008, New Zealand legend Joe Rokocoko will return to Thomond Park later this month, lining out for the Barbarians against Ireland on May 28th.

The winger will play at the Limerick venue for the first time since 2008 when he scored a try four minutes from time to deny Munster another famous win over the Southern Hemisphere giants. Despite losing 16-18, the famed Munster Haka coupled with a wonderful performance on the field and a rousing atmosphere in the stadium ensured the night will forever be remembered as a fantastic occasion in Munster Rugby history.

Rokocoko scored 46 tries in his 68 tests and has appeared for the Barbarians six times. He is one of three players who accepted the Barbarians invitation this week alongside Toulon try-machine David Smith and fellow New Zealander Rene Ranger.

Smith is another returning to Thomond Park having made his Barbarians’ debut in Limerick when the tourists defeated Ireland 23-29 in 2010. The winger, who leaves Toulon at the end of this season, is the leading scorer in France’s Top 14 this season with 13 tries in 14 appearances.

Ranger made a dazzling Barbarians debut last season in the 39-29 win against a young England XV and is due to return to the Auckland Blues after a two-season spell with Montpellier in 2016.

The Barbarians celebrate their 125th anniversary this year and former Australia Head Coach Robbie Deans is assembling a group that will maintain the attacking traditions of the world famous invitation side. Incidentally Deans was part of the New Zealand coaching team that introduced Rokocoko to Test rugby.

Commenting on the latest player announcement Deans said, “As a coach, the chance to combine the attacking talents of players like David Smith, Joe Rokocoko and Rene Ranger in one team is an exciting opportunity,”

“All three are quality performers who have thrived for Northern and Southern Hemisphere sides and it’s a testament to the standing of the Barbarians that they are able to bring them together.

“They’ll enjoy training and playing together as part of the same squad and I’m sure supporters in Ireland will enjoy watching them."

Ireland v Barbarians, Thursday May 28th at Thomond Park – KO 7:45pm.

Adult tickets from €;30 and Family Terrace Packs from €;25 (1 Adult & Child) can be purchased online here, from the Munster Rugby Ticket Offices at Thomond Park and Irish Independent Park or by calling 0818 719 300.