Munster Rugby confirm starting lineup for URC season opener ...

21 Oct 2023

Limerick Leader

MUNSTER RUGBY head coach Graham Rowntree has named his first team of the new season as they begin the defence of the United Rugby Championship (URC) against South African side the Sharks at Thomond Park.

Rowntree has included Shannon scrum half Ethan Coughlan for his first start. The Clare native is one of five Academy players included in the team.

Elsewhere, Andrew Conway returns after missing all of last season for his 150th appearance for Munster. He hasn't played since June 2022 due to a knee injury. He did spend time with the Irish squad in their training camp before the World Cup, however.

He starts on the right wing with Shane Daly at full back and Calvin Nash on the other wing. Rory Scannell is alongside Antoine Frisch in the centre, with Joey Carbery at out half with Coughlan wearing nine.

The front row sees Josh Wycherley, Diarmuid Barron and Stephen Archer pack down, with Edwin Edogbo and Fineen Wycherley picked at second row.

Jack O'Donoghue captains Munster at blindside flanker with Alex Kendellan and Gavin Coombes joining him in the back row. New signing Alex Nankivell is among the replacements with Limerick duo Neil Cronin and Shay McCarthy. The latter is also set for his first competitive appearance.

The game at Thomond Park has a 5.15pm start and is live on TG4.

Munster: Shane Daly; Andrew Conway, Antoine Frisch, Rory Scannell, Calvin Nash; Joey Carbery, Ethan Coughlan; Josh Wycherley, Diarmuid Barron, Stephen Archer; Edwin Edogbo, Fineen Wycherley; Jack O’Donoghue (C), Alex Kendellen, Gavin Coombes.

Replacements: Scott Buckley, Kieran Ryan, John Ryan, Tom Ahern, Brian Gleeson, Neil Cronin, Alex Nankivell, Shay McCarthy.

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