McGahan opts for youth for Dragons tie

Munster coach Tony McGahan has named a youthful side for tomorrow evening’s Magners League clash with Newport Gwent Dragons at Musgrave Park, kick-off 7.30pm.

McGahan has opted to play the Garryowen half-back pairing of Declan Cusack and Conor Murray against the Welsh region.

The highly promising Murray, 21, will be making his first start for the Munster senior side while this will only be Cusack’s second run out for the Reds. Cusack, however, will have Paul Warwick next to him at inside centre to provide direction.

Warwick links up with Lifeimi Mafi, who is in sublime form at present.

Marcus Horan and Denis Fogarty return to the front row and are joined by inexperienced tighthead Stephen Archer.

Mick O’Driscoll captains the side from the second row alongside Ian Nagle while Denis Leamy, who was released from international duty during the week, starts at number eight.

Munster: J Murphy, D Howlett, L Mafi, P Warwick, S Zebo, D Cusack, C Murray, M Horan, D Fogarty, S Archer, I Nagle, M O’Driscoll (C); D Ryan, J Coughlan, D Leamy.

Replacements: D Varley, W du Preez, T Buckley, A Quinlan, T O’Donnell, P Stringer, S Tuitupou, D Barnes.