Operation #MunsterInThePáirc

Preparations are in full swing for the first-ever rugby match at a sold-out Páirc Uí Chaoimh next week as Munster face the South Africa Select XV in Cork next Thursday, in association with Pinergy.

A landmark occasion, the sell-out game will see 41,400 supporters make their way to Páirc Uí Chaoimh for the largest-ever attendance at a rugby game in the province.

With lots of work going on behind-the-scenes to prepare for the game, see some of the key info ahead of the big event below.

We will have full supporter match-day information covering all operational details ahead of the game next week.

The game kicks off at 7.30pm on Thursday, November 10, with live TV coverage on Virgin Media Two from 6.30pm.

Did you know?

• This will be the first time in the professional era that Munster Rugby face a South African touring side, with the last encounter taking place in 1970.
• While the sides have met on three occasions, South Africa remain the only major touring side the province have yet to record a win against.
• The SA coaching team will include two former Munster representatives – SA Director of Rugby Rassie Erasmus and Assistant Coach Wian du Preez.
• The goal posts in Páirc Uí Chaoimh are not fit for purpose for a rugby game. The goal posts will be removed from Thomond Park and transported to the Cork venue early next week. The Musgrave Park posts were not an option due to different fittings.
• GAA pitches are much larger than rugby pitches. Sponsorship hoarding boards will be placed inside the bowl to create the pitch perimeter and replicate the smaller rugby area.
• Match clocks will be installed in the corners as the scoreboard clock in Páirc Uí Chaoimh runs without stoppages.
• The stadium is located in a residential area and all roads leading up to the stadium will strictly close by 5pm.
• Additional temporary lighting will be added to the routes in and out of the stadium.
• Munster will wear their new adidas European kit for the first time.