Jones And O’Connell Start

Felix Jones and Paul O’Connell who both returned to Munster action last weekend against Newport Gwent Dragons make their first start of the season this Saturday in Thomond Park against Leinster, ko 6.45pm.

Further positive news sees the return of BJ Botha and Conor Murray who are both named in the replacements.

Botha, who sustained a knee injury in Munster’s pre-season game against London Irish, has displayed great commitment to the rehab programme set out by Munster’s medical staff in getting match ready for the round five fixture.

Head Coach Rob Penney has opted to start with Jones at fullback on Saturday with Keith Earls switching to the wing as Casey Laulala and James Downey resume their centre partnership.

With the return of Conor Murray, Cathal Sheridan misses out this week with Duncan Williams starting alongside Ian Keatley in the half-backs.

On making his first start of the season Paul O’Connell joins Donnacha Ryan in the second row pairing while Captain Peter O’Mahony, Niall Ronan and James Coughlan form the back-row.

Tickets are currently on sale for Saturday’s game online here, from the Munster Rugby ticket offices in Thomond Park and Musgrave Park, or by calling Ticketmaster on 0818 719300.

Please note tickets will be on sale on match day from 9am from the Ticketmaster van at Hassett’s Cross and from 4.45pm from the West Stand ticket office.

Munster: Felix Jones; Keith Earls, Casey Laulala, James Downey, Simon Zebo; Ian Keatley, Duncan Williams; Dave Kilycoyne, Mike Sherry, Stephen Archer; Donnacha Ryan, Paul O’Connell; Peter O’Mahony Capt., Niall Ronan, James Coughlan. Replacements: Damien Varley, James Cronin, BJ Botha, Donncha O’Callaghan, CJ Stander, Conor Murray, JJ Hanrahan, Denis Hurley.