Rassie Erasmus is a man of substance who won’t be resting on his laurels

Munster head coach Rassie Erasmus has married the traditional strength Munster has always carried up front to a very clever continuity game, writes Donal Lenihan.

Amazing what a win over New Zealand can do for a country’s rugby psyche. After 111 years of heartache and defeat, the feelgood factor resulting from that famous win in Chicago has seemingly had a knock on effect, permeating all the way into the provincial changing rooms.

With all four provinces represented on that emotive day in Soldier Field, the Irish players have returned with a confidence and swagger that is bound to rub off on everyone in close proximity.