Donal Lenihan: Toulouse present the perfect gut check for Munster progress

The reigning French champions are in a rich vein of form at present and supply more players to the Grand Slam-winning national squad than any other French club

LEADER: Munster’s Joey Carbery was outstanding in leading the attack against Edinburgh on Friday night. Pic: INPHO/Craig Watson

For many, this season’s Heineken Champions Cup has crept in from left field, with little fanfare after an intense period of international activity.

The focus appears firmly fixed on next year's World Cup with France, Ireland and South Africa all in a good place after positive showings over the November series. With three South African sides making their Champions Cup debut over the weekend, a fresh layer of competitiveness has just been added to this magnificent tournament.