Munster XV versus Bulls named

Stock photo.
Advertisement

THERE is only one change in the Munster XV for Saturday’s URC quarter-final against Bulls at Loftus Versfield, Pretoria (12noon) as Alex Nankivell comes into the side.

Mike Haley, Andrew Smith and Shane Daly start in an unchanged back three with a midfield partnership of Seán O’Brien and Nankivell.
Captain Craig Casey and JJ Hanrahan continue their half-back partnership.

The forwards are unchanged with Jeremy Loughman, Niall Scannell and Michael Ala’alatoa packing down in the front row.

Tom Ahern and Evan O’Connell start in the engine room with a back row of Jack O’Donoghue, John Hodnett and Brian Gleeson completing the starting XV.

Advertisement

Diarmuid Barron, Josh Wycherley and Conor Bartley provide the front row back-up with Fineen Wycherley, Gavin Coombes and Kendellen completing the forward cover.

Fineen Wycherley is set for his 150th appearance for the province after missing out against Lions due to injury.

Ben O’Donovan and Dan Kelly are the backline replacements.

Munster: Mike Haley; Andrew Smith, Alex Nankivell, Seán O’Brien, Shane Daly; JJ Hanrahan, Craig Casey, captain; Jeremy Loughman, Niall Scannell, Michael Ala’alatoa; Tom Ahern, Evan O’Connell; Jack O’Donoghue, John Hodnett, Brian Gleeson.

Replacements: Diarmuid Barron, Josh Wycherley, Conor Bartley, Fineen Wycherley, Gavin Coombes, Ben O’Donovan, Dan Kelly, Alex Kendellen.

Unavailable for selection: Lee Barron (neck), Roman Salanoa (hamstring), Michael Milne (calf), Oli Jager (head/concussion), Tadhg Beirne (knee), Edwin Edogbo (shoulder), Jean Kleyn (biceps), Paddy Patterson (knee), Jack Crowley (leg), Tom Farrell (shoulder), Calvin Nash (hamstring).