Munster rest stars for clash with Ulster

MUNSTER’S desire to win the Magners League will only be partially compromised by the decision to rest captain Paul O’Connell, John Hayes and Doug Howlett for the clash with Ulster at Ravenhill on Saturday.

All have participated hugely in Munster’s competitive season to date and coach Tony McGahan has given the trio a chance to rest. Munster will also be without the injured Frankie Sheahan, Tomas O’Leary and Rua Tipoki, but the coach can still choose from an exceptionally strong squad of 27.

Munster could, and probably will, travel to Belfast — the squad will be cut tomorrow — with as many as 13 players included in Declan Kidney’s Irish squad for the autumn internationals, even allowing for the absence of O’Connell, Hayes and O’Leary.