Squad Update

16th August 2016 By Munster Rugby

As the competitive season draws closer Munster’s preparations include two preseason games as part of the Kearys Renault Series.

First up is PRO12 opposition, Zebre, this Friday at the Regional Sports Centre in Waterford at 7pm.

In preparing for the first encounter of the season, and a first for the new coaching ticket, the squad stepped up their training programme in UL this week with an extended match day squad set to be named on Wednesday. In addition to some household names it is expected a number of academy and club players, who have been training during the preseason, will be included in Friday’s squad.

Those not involved include returning internationals Conor Murray, Keith Earls, CJ Stander, Donnacha Ryan and Dave Kilcoyne, and rehabbing players such as Sam Arnold (knee), Mark Chisholm (concussion), Sean McCarthy (knee), Peter O’Mahony (knee) and Johnny Holland (hamstring).

Francis Saili underwent a further shoulder procedure on Monday and is currently recovering post-op. Speaking with media today, Director of Rugby Rassie Erasmus confirmed that the New Zealand centre is expected to be sidelined for approximately three to four months.

Newcomer Jean Kleyn has linked up with the squad as of last week, however this Friday’s game comes too early for selection as the South African lock continues to settle in and familiarise himself with the new set-up.

In returning to the East Munster venue for the first time since August 2014, tickets can be purchased at the ground on matchday, online here, or by calling 061 421103.