Munster’s youth to swim with Sharks

IN THE enforced absence of Ireland’s Lions and Churchill Cup internationals, Munster will be giving youth its fling in tonight’s friendly against Sale Sharks at Musgrave Park (7pm).

The emphasis is very much on experimentation through the younger brood of players, and while Sale will also field an experimental team there is a more experienced look about a side that will be captained by English out-half Charlie Hodgson.

The visiting pack will be bolstered by seasoned players, English and Welsh internationals respectively, Chris Jones and Brent Cockbain in the second row, while Chris Bell, Lee Thomas, Spanish international Oriol Ripol and, to a lesser extent, Nick MacLeod, boast a much bigger degree of competitive experience than Munster.