Categories: European Rugby Main News Munster Provincial URC

Injuries Add To Munster’s Disappointment

Following a physical and bruising encounter with Saracens, yesterday was a recovery day for the Munster players, with the squad to resume preparations for next Sunday’s round 6 game against Sale Sharks at their respective centres in Cork and Limerick today.

On the injury front, Johne Murphy sustained a broken bone in his hand at training last Thursday, ruling him out of contention for last weekend’s European Champions Cup 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.

At Allianz Park last Saturday, CJ Stander and Simon Zebo (pictured below) both picked up ankle injuries in the disappointing 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.

Meanwhile, Robin Copeland (shoulder) is continuing with his return-to-play protocols, 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 Under-20 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.

In refereeing news, Italy’s Marius Mitrea will now take charge of Munster’s Pool 1 clash with Sale Sharks at Thomond Park on Sunday (kick-off 3.15pm). Pascal Gauzère from France had originally been appointed to oversee proceedings, but due to an injury to Romain Poite, he will now referee Ulster v Leicester Tigers in Pool 3.

With over 21000 tickets now sold for the Munster v Sale 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.