Three changes for Connacht

Captain John Muldoon is one of three players Connacht coach Eric Elwood has brought in as his side prepare to take on an Ireland XV at Donnybrook this evening (kick off: 6.30pm).

Muldoon missed the recent friendly in Dubarry Park against Exeter Chiefs, but returns at blindside flanker, along with hooker Adrian Flavin and second row Mick Kearney.

Flavin will start alongside props Dylan Rogers and Rodney Ah You, while Michael Swift partners Kearney at second row.

The back row sees Muldoon joined by Ray Ofisa at openside flanker, while George Naoupu starts at Number 8.

Elwood has kept faith in his backline as Paul O’Donohoe and Niall O’Connor starting at scrum and out half.

Henry Fa’afili and Eoin Griffin will be lining out in the centre against a partnership consisting of former teammate Ian Keatley and Ulster's Darren Cave, while Brian Tuohy, Mark McCrea and Tiernan O’Halloran complete the backline.

Coach Eric Elwood said that Thursday's game will provide a great test for his players against a side filled with World Cup contenders.

“This will a be a huge test for us, we’re up against a strong Ireland Select side with players vying for World Cup places so it’s a great opportunity for our players to test themselves at this level.

"From our perspective we’re looking for an 80 minute performance and improvements in key areas from last weekend’s game against Exeter."

Connacht XV to play Ireland Select XV:

1 Dylan Rogers

2 Adrian Flavin

3 Rodney Ah You

4 Michael Swift

5 Mick Kearney

6 John Muldoon (C)

7 Ray Ofisa

8 George Naoupu

9 Paul O’Donohoe

10 Niall O’Connor

11 Brian Tuohy

12 Henry Fa’afili

13 Eoin Griffin

14 Mark McCrea

15 Tiernan O’Halloran

16 Ethienne Reynecke

17 Denis Buckley

18 Johnny O’Connor

19 TJ Anderson

20 Dave Moore

21 Matthew Jarvis

22 James Loxton