Stirling test for Munster’s academy stars

THE Heineken Cup semi-final involving Munster and Saracens is not the only show in town this weekend.

Some of Munster’s brightest academy members, including Scott Deasy and Tommy O’Donnell, are representing the province for the first time at today’s Ondeo City of Stirling Sevens Tournament.

The 10-man squad was selected from available development and academy-contracted players and AIB League club players. It is coached by academy manager Ian Sherwin and John Lacey, regional development manager.

The tournament, which takes place in the City of Stirling, Scotland, will feature some of Europe’s elite rugby clubs, including Wasps and Edinburgh.

Munster’s first game is against a West of Scotland divisional side and the outcome of this game will determine Munster’s place in the next stage of the competition.

Munster are sponsored by Data Space (Scotland) Ltd and will be joined by other professional sides including The Kenny Logan RBS Private Banking All Stars — a combination of current English and Scottish Sevens Internationals.

Munster Sevens squad: B Keeshan (Dolphin), S Cronin (UCC), B O’Mahoney (Garryowen), T O’Donnell (UL Bohs), D Cusack (Thomond), Liam Óg Murphy (Young Munster), S Deasy (UCC), I Hanley (UL Bohs), E Grace (Shannon), J Manning (Cork Con).