Rassie Erasmus says Munster will start with a blank canvas

Whether it was a brave face or genuine optimism from Rassie Erasmus this week, the feelgood vibes emanating from Munster’s director of rugby ahead of tomorrow’s Champions Cup opener in Paris could evaporate in a heartbeat if his side fails to rise to the occasion.

Erasmus faces a European baptism of fire at Stade Yves du Manoir when his side attempt to start rebuilding the province’s reputation at the continent’s top table in a city where it reached its nadir just nine months ago.

Last January’s humiliation across town by 14-man Stade Francais categorically erased any remaining lustre from the legacy of Munster’s Heineken Cup wins of 2006 and 08, paving the way for the South African’s introduction this summer as the man to turn things around and restore pride in Europe’s premier club competition.