Squad Update

With their first game of the all-new Guinness PRO14 taking place in Cork this Friday, Munster continue preparations for the challenge of Benetton Rugby at the High Performance Centre in UL today. On the injury front, following last Thursday’s preseason win away to Worcester Warriors, Gerbrandt Grobler is to undergo a scan for the knock he received to his ankle, while try-scorer Tommy O’Donnell is following return-to-play protocols. Having met with a specialist, it’s been confirmed that Conor Oliver will undergo surgery this week for the shoulder injury he sustained in preseason. There was better news for Robin Copeland (shoulder) and Kevin O’Byrne (groin), both of whom will return to full training this week. JJ Hanrahan (shoulder), Sam Arnold (calf), Duncan Casey (groin), Ronan O’Mahony (fibula), Dave O’Callaghan (knee) and Darren O’Shea (shoulder) continue to follow their respective programmes. Director of Rugby Rassie Erasmus will name his side to face Benetton Rugby at midday on Thursday.

Friday Night Lights

With both players and the team looking to lay down marker for the season ahead, start this weekend by cheering on Munster 'under lights' at Irish Independent Park. Munster v Benetton Rugby, Guinness PRO14 Round 1, Friday September 1st, ko 7.35pm. Tickets – Junior €7, Adult €20, Family €40 – can be purchased online here, or at the ground on the night.