Causes for optimism as strong Munster face brave new dawn

Munster begin this expanded 16-team competition with both team and coaching staff very much at a crossroads

Munster head coach Johann van Graan at squad training earlier this week. Picture: INPHO/Morgan Treacy

It is not often a brave new world follows the same themes that dominated the one recently departed, but that is where Munster find themselves on the brink of the inaugural United Rugby Championship.

Munster begin this expanded 16-team competition — enhanced by the introduction of South Africa’s four “Super” franchises — with both team and coaching staff very much at a crossroads as the wait for silverware stretches into its 11th season.