Recovered Sean O’Brien back to wrecking ball best

In five weeks or so, when the four provinces unite to launch their bid for a third RBS 6 Nations title, even Munster supporters may be grateful for the return of Sean O’Brien to his rampaging best.

For now, though, the fitness of Ireland’s first choice open side flanker caused gnashing of teeth for those from the southern province who witnessed his comeback for Leinster in their win at Thomond Park on Sunday night.

O’Brien, restored by Leo Cullen to the Leinster side after a worrying inner ear problem known as vestibular impairment that kept him sidelined since mid-November, scooped the Guinness Pro12 man of the match award for his considerable contribution to the side’s 24-7 victory in Limerick.