Munster handed Taute boost, but Grobler leaving

Munster’s Guinness PRO14 play-off hopes have been handed a boost by the news Springbok centre Jaco Taute could be set to return from long-term injury for this Saturday’s home quarter-final against Edinburgh.

Taute, 27, has been sidelined for seven months with a knee injury sustained on September 30 against Cardiff Blues, but his appearance at Thomond Park during last Saturday’s 24-24 draw with Ulster as he trained alongside Munster’s matchday replacements as they warmed up was a welcome sight for supporters.

In the absence of both Taute and Irish international Chris Farrell, injured during the Six Nations victory over Wales in late February, Munster head coach Johann van Graan has relied heavily on a midfield combination of Rory Scannell and Sammy Arnold.