Leamy leads Munster into battle

DENIS LEAMY has had his status as stand-in skipper to the injured Paul O’Connell confirmed with the announcement that he is to lead Munster into Magners League battle against Aironi at Musgrave Park tomorrow (7.30pm).

Leamy led Munster in each of their pre-season friendly matches but now takes his role a stage further as Munster embark on what they regard as a tough assignment against tournament rookies Aironi.

The newly-formed Italian outfit have secured the services of a plethora of international class players, particularly abrasive forwards, for their first season in European competition, and Munster coach Tony McGahan figures the pre-season performances deserve reward for many players, including Leamy.