Stringer and Quinlan in for Munster

Munster coach Tony McGahan has chosen Peter Stringer and Alan Quinlan for the opening Heineken Cup game against French side Montauban in Thomond Park on Friday evening (8pm).

McGahan said: "The side chosen for this first ERC game is one based on current form. This side, we believe, is the best fit to get a result against a very competitive Montauban XV.

"We haven't played against Montauban before but we have done a lot of analysis on them. They have a strong and physical forward pack, pace in the outside backs and process a strong kicking game.

"Their consistent performances in the French Top 14 makes them fully deserving of a place in what is a very competitive pool alongside Clermont and Sale".

Montauban captain Marc Raynaud has declared the French club are delighted to have arrived at the top table of European club rugby ahead of Friday's game at Thomond Park.

They will have plenty of information about the occasion given the presence of Scotland international lock Scott Murray in their pack and a storng leader in Raynaud.

"We are very happy and honoured to be part of this competition," said Raynaud.

"I think we will play without too much pressure and, above all else, take pleasure in just playing in the tournament.

"Whether we are playing against Clermont, Munster or Sale in that particular round, we know what to expect and that is that we will face major challenges. For us the main focus is on our national championship but we will fight also in the European tournament."

MUNSTER: K Earls; D Howlett, R Tipoki, L Mafi, I Dowling; R O'Gara, P Stringer; M Horan, J Flannery, J Hayes, P O'Connell (capt), D O'Callaghan, A Quinlan, D Wallace, J Melck.

Replacements: D Fogarty, F Pucciariello, D Ryan, J O'Sullivan, M Prendergast, P Warwick, B Murphy.

MONTAUBAN: J Dalla Riva; S Jonnet, J Viard, R Jahouer, J Cassin; R Lespinas, P Mitu; B Balan, B Mach, N Adams, S Murray, R Frost, Y Caballero, M Raynaud (capt), M Clarkin.

Replacements: C Traversa, L DelBoulbes, S Florea, K Ghezal, A Battut, F Fortassin, J Laharrague