Munster Rugby and Connacht Rugby are set to get their new United Rugby Championship season underway in a potentially exciting interpro showdown. The two sides will be looking to start their season strongly, with Munster hoping to improve on their recent record against their provincial rivals and Connacht looking to build on their successful away performances from last season.
Munster's Preparations and Key Returns
Munster are eager to start their season on a high note, especially with Tadhg Beirne named as the new Munster Rugby captain. They will be looking to avoid the injury and illness issues that hampered their mid-season form last year, particularly around the Christmas period. Head coach Graham Rowntree emphasized the importance of having depth in the squad to navigate potential challenges.
The Reds are welcoming back some key players, including Jean Kleyn, who returns after recovering from a serious eye injury, and Billy Burns, making his first Munster appearance. Thaakir Abrahams is also set to make his Munster debut on the wing.
Connacht's Exciting Line-up and Debuts
Connacht will be looking to repeat their New Year's Day victory over Munster, which saw them secure a 22-9 win at Dexcom Stadium in Galway. The match also marked a turning point for Connacht's season, with their bench and the 6-2 split playing a crucial role in their success. Connacht fans will be eager to see the impact of their new half-back duo, Ben Murphy and Josh Ioane, as well as Piers O'Connor making his debut at outside centre.
Perhaps the most anticipated return is that of Mack Hansen, who has been sidelined since New Year's Day due to a shoulder injury sustained against Munster. Hansen's return will bring a significant boost to Connacht's attacking prowess.
A Battle of the Captains and a Clash of Styles
Both sides have new captains for the season, with Cian Prendergast leading Connacht and Diarmuid Barron deputising for Tadhg Beirne at Munster. The matchup will be a clash of styles, with Munster's experienced and well-established team facing a Connacht side looking to make a statement with their new additions and returning players.
The Key Matchups to Watch
Several key matchups will determine the outcome of this interprovincial derby. The clash between the new out-halves, Billy Burns for Munster and Josh Ioane for Connacht, will be particularly intriguing. Connacht's exciting back three, featuring Mack Hansen, Santiago Cordero, and Shayne Bolton, will be a key threat for the Munster defense.
A Battle of Provincial Pride
This clash between Munster and Connacht is not just about the start of a new URC season; it's a battle of provincial pride. Both sides will be looking to gain an early advantage in the competition and demonstrate their ambitions for the year. The match is sure to be a fierce and exciting encounter, with both teams eager to secure a win in front of their home fans.
Don't Miss the Action
The match is set to kick off at 5.30 pm on Saturday, September 21st at Thomond Park in Limerick. The game will be broadcast live on RTÉ, Premier Sports, SuperSport, Flo Rugby, and URC.tv. Don't miss out on what promises to be an exciting start to the new United Rugby Championship season.
