Munster heavyweights to return, injury concerns for Connacht

Much as Leinster have helicoptered their returning international squad members into the team for this weekend, Munster are expected to draft in Ronan O’Gara, Peter Stringer, Anthony Foley, Marcus Horan, Paul O’Callaghan and Donncha O’Callaghan to the squad for Sunday’s home fixture with Llanelli.

However, there is a doubt about Alan Quinlan, who has a niggling shoulder injury. Jim Williams is definitely out, his arm not yet recovered from the injury sustained against Leinster. However, he is expected to be available for the following week.

The fixture will be the first competitive Munster match at Thomond this season, and it promises to be a juicy one. Llanelli and Munster are traditionally two of the powerhouses, both former winners of the Celtic League. Both have made pretty underwhelming starts to this campaign, although Llanelli’s recovery appears to be under way with their impressive win last weekend against Edinburgh.

Connacht have a number of injury concerns ahead of their match against The Borders at the Sportsgrounds on Saturday. Bernard Jackman, Tom Tierney, Mark McHugh and Matt Mostyn are all doubtful for selection.

Connacht have declared Saturday to be Ladies’ Day. Ladies will be admitted free to all areas of the ground, including the enclosed stand. All this, and rugby too! Sounds like an opportunity not to be missed.