Academy players key in Munster's flying start to the season, Van Graan says

Munster have the chance this Sunday to stretch their winning streak to five games from five when Ospreys visit Thomond Park

Munster’s Ben Healy is one of a number of young players who have made a breakthrough with the province this season. Picture: INPHO/Morgan Treacy

Johann van Graan has credited the decision to bring academy players into senior squad training as helping Munster get off to their unbeaten start to the new Guinness PRO14 season.

Academy fly-halves Ben Healy and Jake Flannery, back-rower John Hodnett, lock Thomas Ahern and prop Josh Wycherley as well as rookie professionals such as scrum-half Craig Casey, No 8 Jack O’Sullivan, hooker Diarmuid Barron and prop Keynan Knox have all featured in the wins so far over Scarlets, Edinburgh, Cardiff Blues, and Dragons.