Howlett: Experience will be key

MUNSTER star Doug Howlett sees his teammates’ vast experience as a crucial strength, facing into the business end of the season.

“I see it as a huge advantage. It just shows in some of the results, the resolve that you need when you’re digging out wins. Old teams can go through that, but you can’t really have that experience without the exuberance of youth either.

“Guys like Keith Earls and Niall Ronan are the younger guys pushing through. While the Irish internationals have been away I’ve been able to see first-hand what’s coming through in Munster, and there’s some exciting young talent coming, given time. In addition to that, they have the opportunities to learn from the likes of John (Hayes) and Ronan (O’Gara) – they’re some of the best in the world.”