Paulie back on the paddock but Penney plays down return date

Paul O’Connell took an active part in yesterday’s Munster squad session at the UL and looks well on course to make his targeted return to active service by early to mid-April after surgery on his back on January 31.

“He seems to be progressing nicely,” said coach Rob Penney who, in accordance to customary practice, is leaving it up to the player and the medical team to monitor his progress.

“There’s always a bit of a buzz for the other guys when Paul is involved and it’s nice to have him well but we’re just drip fed the information from the medics because they don’t want us to get too excited.”