Thomond Park plays host to rugby of a slightly different variety this weekend when 12 teams battle for the inaugural Limerick World Sevens.

Connacht have announced the signing of powerful 28-year-old front-row Tom McCartney from The Super Rugby side the Blues.

IN what is Munster’s first home game since winning the Heineken Cup in May, Tony McGahan has kept faith with 11 of the side that started in last weekend’s impressive 46-22 win over the USA Eagles for tonight’s sell-out friendly with London Irish at Musgrave Park (7.30pm).

MUNSTER Rugby last night launched its own dedicated clothing range outside of regular team and supporter wear.