Following the bonus point winning exploits of last Friday night, this morning saw Munster begin preparations for the arrival of the Toyota Cheetahs to Thomond Park this Saturday in what will be their first competitive game against South African opposition.
Dan Goggin remains the only injury concern following the 34-3 win over Benetton Rugby in Cork. The centre is to undergo a scan today for the knee injury he sustained the in the second half and is expected to be sidelined for the foreseeable future.
Conor Oliver is another on Munster’s long-term injury list having undergone surgery last week for the shoulder injury he picked up in pre-season. Following a scan on the ankle injury he sustained in pre-season against Worcester Warriors, Gerbrandt Grobler will meet with a specialist this week.
The weekend saw a return to action for long term rehabber Mike Sherry (back), who played his first GUINNESS PRO14 game since May 2016, with two-try lock Jean Kleyn (neck) and Robin Copeland (shoulder) also returning post-surgery.
Friday night also saw a Munster Under-20/Development side defeat their Ulster counterparts 29-21 at Thomond Park with David Johnston and the returning Kevin O’Byrne both featuring for the hosts, the latter crossing for a try. Munster Academy starlet Calvin Nash received a knock to the sternum and continues to be monitored by the medical team.
In looking ahead to Saturday evening’s encounter with the Toyota Cheetahs at Thomond Park, a number of the internationals who featured for Ireland in their clean sweep of wins in the USA and Japan this summer are expected to make their first appearances of the new season. Munster director of rugby Rassie Erasmus will name his side for round 2 of the PRO14 at midday on Friday.
James Cronin (knee), JJ Hanrahan (shoulder), Sam Arnold (calf), Duncan Casey (groin), Ronan O’Mahony (fibula), Dave O’Callaghan (knee) and Darren O’Shea (shoulder) continue to follow their respective rehab programmes.
Munster return to Thomond Park to face the Cheetahs this coming Saturday (kick-off 5.15pm). Be there to witness history as the province take on South African opposition for the first time in competition. Adult tickets from €;20 and family tickets from €;40 can be purchased online here.
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