Joe Rokocoko ready for return to Thomond

All Blacks legend Joe Rokocoko is set to make his first return to Thomond Park since scoring the winning try against Munster seven years ago after being confirmed for the Barbarians squad to face an Ireland XV in Limerick on May 28.

Rokocoko broke Munster hearts at the newly-renovated Thomond Park in November 2008 when with four minutes to go he snatched victory for the New Zealand tourists as the All Blacks came from behind to win 16-13.

Seven years on, the Kiwi wing was yesterday one of three star southern hemisphere backs along with Toulon’s David Smith and Montpellier’s Rene Ranger who were confirmed as the latest players to accept invitations to join Robbie Deans’s squad for games against an Ireland XV and then an England XV at Twickenham three days later.

Former Australia head coach Deans said having Smith, Rokocoko and Ranger’s firepower would serve the invitation side’s legendary attacking traditions perfectly as the Baa Baas celebrate their 125th anniversary this year.

“As a coach, the chance to combine the attacking talents of players like David Smith, Joe Rokocoko and Rene Ranger in one team is an exciting opportunity,” said Deans, who was part of the New Zealand coaching staff that introduced Rokocoko to Test rugby.

“All three are quality performers who have thrived for northern and southern hemisphere sides and it’s a testament to the standing of the Barbarians that they are able to bring them together.

“They’ll enjoy training and playing together as part of the same squad and I’m sure supporters in Ireland and England will enjoy watching them.”

Australia fly-half Berrick Barnes had already been confirmed for the Barbarians along with Argentina scrum-half Tomas Cubelli and New Zealand flanker George Whitelock but there will now be plenty of extra star quality on display against Joe Schmidt’s Ireland selection at Thomond Park next month.