O’Connell in Munster match day squad

THE selection of Donnacha Ryan in Munster’s British and Irish Cup squad confirms Paul O’Connell’s involvement in the Heineken Cup clash with the Ospreys at Thomond Park on Sunday.

Ryan was originally chosen in Munster’s 28 man group for the European game but now joins a strong Munster A squad that will be captained by Billy Holland for the game with Melrose at Greenyards tomorrow.

Ryan’s release leaves head coach Tony McGahan with three top second rows for the game against the Welsh side; Mick O’Driscoll is favoured to start alongside Donncha O’Callaghan and that leaves O’Connell free to act as a heavy hitting impact substitute.