Munster host London Welsh in B&I Cup opener

Munster ‘A’ will get their British & Irish Cup season underway when they host title holders London Welsh in a pool that also contains Doncaster Knights and Rotherham Titans.

Declan Cusack and Sean Scanlon, now plying their trade in Doncaster, both played their part in securing the B&I Cup for Munster in 2012 and the duo will have the chance to play their former club when the two teams face off in Pool 2 on the third weekend in October.

Connacht Eagles have been pitted against London Irish, who were relegated from the Aviva Premiership last season, in Pool 3. The  Exiles have World Cup winner Ben Franks and Irish prop Tom Court in their side. Also in Connacht's pool are Welsh Regional Premiership side Ospreys Premiership Select and first opponents Cornish Pirates.