Munster Team Lineup Announced for Exciting Clash Against Bath
The Munster rugby team is set to play Bath in the opening match of the Investec Champions Cup. This match will take place at The Rec, with kickoff scheduled for 8 PM and available for live viewing on Premier Sports.
Munster Team Changes
Munster has made five changes from the squad that played against the DHL Stormers. Notable additions to the backline include Dan Kelly and JJ Hanrahan. Kelly will make his Champions Cup debut for Munster.
Key Players and Positions
- Michael Milne
- Jean Kleyn
- John Hodnett
Kleyn returns from international duty with the Springboks. Additionally, Michael Ala’alatoa is set to make his debut for Munster as a replacement after joining the team from Clermont Auvergne.
Forward and Backline Lineup
The starting back three remains unchanged with Shane Daly, Diarmuid Kilgallen, and Thaakir Abrahams. Kelly teams up with Tom Farrell in midfield, while Craig Casey and Hanrahan will take charge of the half-backs.
The front row consists of Milne, Diarmuid Barron, and John Ryan. Kleyn and Tom Ahern work together in the engine room. The back row features captain Tadhg Beirne, Hodnett, and Gavin Coombes.
Replacement Players
On the bench, Munster will utilize Lee Barron, Jeremy Loughman, Ala’alatoa, Edwin Edogbo, Ruadhán Quinn, and Alex Kendellen. Both Barron and Edogbo are on the brink of their Champions Cup debuts, while Quinn awaits his first appearance as well.
Injuries and Unavailable Players
- Jack Crowley (ankle) – Estimated return in 1-2 weeks.
- Calvin Nash (shoulder) – Estimated return in 1-2 weeks.
- Andrew Smith (knee/hamstring) – Estimated return in 1-2 weeks.
- Jack O’Donoghue (concussion) – Under return-to-play protocols.
- Brian Gleeson (elbow) – Expected return in 4 weeks.
- Oli Jager (head) – Targeting return in January.
Upcoming Matches
Munster’s next home fixture in the Champions Cup is against Gloucester on December 13 at SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh, kicking off at 5:30 PM. Tickets for this match are available. Additionally, other upcoming fixtures include:
| Date | Opposition | Venue | Kickoff | Ticket Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| December 27 | Leinster Rugby | Thomond Park | 7:45 PM | SOLD OUT |
| January 17 | Castres Olympique | Thomond Park | 5:30 PM | Available |
| January 23 | Dragons RFC | Virgin Media Park | 7:45 PM | Available |
Fans are encouraged to secure tickets early, as limited availability is expected for future matches.
