Squad Update

Munster gathered in Limerick today for the first squad session of the week as preparations continue for Sunday’s Champions Cup Round 6 encounter away to Benetton Treviso – KO 1pm (Irish).

On the injury front, Rory Scannell sustained a concussion in the second half of Munster’s 26-13 win over Stade Francais on Saturday.  The centre left the field after 60 minutes and is currently following return to play protocols.
 
There was positive news for James Cronin (ankle) and Dave O’Callaghan (adductor) with the loose-head prop returning to full training today while fellow Cork-man and backrow forward O’Callaghan will take part in modified training this week.
 
Andrew Conway (hip pointer) continues to be monitored by the medical team and it has been confirmed that BJ Botha (ACL) and academy out-half Bill Johnston (dislocated shoulder) will undergo their respective surgeries at the end of next week.
 
In relation to Tyler Bleyendaal, who is managing a quadriceps tendon injury, Munster's medical team confirmed that following specialist consultation over this last week, it has been decided that Tyler requires a 12 week rehabilitation period until he returns to play.
 
Stephen Archer (neck) has progressed to light on-pitch running while Cathal Sheridan (calf), Duncan Casey (pec) and Peter O’Mahony (knee) all continue with their rehab programmes.
 
Elsewhere in the British & Irish Cup on Sunday, a total of 9 senior and 9 academy players joined a number of club representatives in Munster A’s 43-29 loss away to Pool 3 toppers Yorkshire Carnegie.  However, Mick O’Driscoll’s men did secure an all-important try bonus point with Duncan Williams, Lee Nicholas (Shannon), David Johnston and Cian Bohane all crossing the whitewash.
 
Johnny Holland who kicked three conversions and a penalty was one of three players to make a welcome return to B&I Cup action following long-term injury.  The out-half joined Peter McCabe (pec) and academy prop Brian Scott (neck and shoulder) in returning to competitive action for Munster A.  Click here for video highlights.
 
The result sees Munster A remain second in Pool 3, five points adrift of Yorkshire Carnegie, and will now bid for a place in the knock out stages against London Scottish on Saturday.

With a break in AIL Division 1A and 1B action last weekend, the academy’s Tomás Quinlan featured for Cork Constitution in their comprehensive 0-24 win away to UCD in the semi-final of the Bateman Cup.  With Quinlan adding three conversions and a penalty, the holders will now contest this year’s Bateman Cup Final with Galwegains – the date to be finalised in due course.
 
In other news the Ireland squad for Rounds 1 and 2 of the 2016 6 Nations is expected to be announced later this week with Anthony Foley and Mick O’Driscoll to name their respective Champions Cup and B&I Cup sides at midday on Friday.