O'Callaghan rested for Munster

Donncha O'Callaghan is the only frontline player omitted from the Munster squad for the Magners League clash with Connacht at Thomond Park on Saturday (kick off: 7.30pm).

Coach Tony McGahan has decided to give the second row a well-deserved rest in light of his recent exploits for club and country.

It is likely that Mick O'Driscoll will partner Paul O'Connell in the engine room. Extra forwards Donncha Ryan, Michael Essex and Nick Williams have also been added to the roster.

MUNSTER (v Connacht): D Hurley, P Warwick; D Howlett, K Earls, L Mafi, B Murphy, I Dowling; R O'Gara, P Stringer, T O'Leary; T Buckley, M Horan, J Hayes, M Essex, J Flannery, D Fogarty, M O'Driscoll, P O'Connell, D Ryan, A Quinlan, D Wallace, N Ronan, D Leamy, N Williams.