Leamy captains Reds for Aironi clash

Denis Leamy retains the captaincy for Munster’s Magners League opener against Aironi Rugby in Musgrave Park on Saturday (7.30pm).

Former Leinster academy player Felix Jones, who suffered a serious neck last season, plays at full-back. Jones is flanked on the wings by experienced campaigners Doug Howlett and Ian Dowling.

New signings Sam Tuitupou and Johne Murphy form a new look midfield partnership. Paul Warwick links up with Peter Stringer at half back while promising youngsters Duncan Williams and Scott Deasy get the bench spots.

Donnacha Ryan makes a welcome return from injury to form the backrow with Leamy and Niall Ronan.

MUNSTER (v Aironi):

F Jones; D Howlett, J Murphy, S Tuitupou, I Dowling; P Warwick, P Stringer; W du Preez, D Varley, T Buckley, M O'Driscoll, B Holland; D Ryan, N Ronan, D Leamy (capt).

Replacements: D Fogarty, M Horan, J Hayes, A Quinlan, P O'Mahony, D Williams, S Deasy, D Barnes