Squad Update

Following a physical and bruising encounter at Allianz Park on Saturday, yesterday was a recovery day for players, with the squad to resume preparations for Sunday’s Sale Sharks encounter at their respective centres in Cork and Limerick today.

On the injury front, Johne Murphy sustained a broken bone in his hand at training on Thursday, ruling him out of contention for last weekend’s trip to London, and the next number of weeks. After meeting with the specialist it was confirmed he will not require surgery and the injury will be managed conservatively.

While at Allianz Park on Saturday CJ Stander and Simon Zebo both picked up ankle injuries in the defeat to Saracens. Stander will undergo a scan and both players will continue to be assessed by the Munster medical staff this week. Conor Murray will also continue to be reviewed for a neck injury sustained against Zebre.

Otherwise Robin Copeland (shoulder) is continuing with his return to play protocol, Andrew Smith (knee) will advance to on-field running, and Dave Kilcoyne (knee) will step up his rehab running programme this week.

There is positive news regarding Tyler Bleyendaal as the former New Zealand U20 captain and Canterbury Crusaders player has made good progress following surgery on a prolapsed disc sustained in the ITM Cup in September. The 24-year-old has been cleared to travel and is scheduled to arrive in the province this weekend. On arrival he will be assessed further by the Munster medical team and continue to follow his rehabilitation programme.

Meanwhile, Marius Mitrea (Italy) will now take charge of Munster’s Champions Cup Pool 1 clash at home to Sale Sharks on Sunday. Pascal Gauzère (France) had originally been appointed to oversee proceedings, but due to injury to Romain Poite, will now referee Ulster v Leicester Tigers in Pool 3.

Munster v Sale Sharks, European Champions Cup Round 6, Sunday January 25th at Thomond Park – KO 3:15pm.

With over 21000 tickets now sold for this game, tickets are still available to purchase online by clicking here with prices starting from €;20 and Terrace Family Packs from €;60. Tickets can also be purchased at the Munster Rugby Ticket Offices at Irish Independent Park and Thomond Park or by calling 0818 719 300.