Munster looking for improvement as they aim to defend URC title

RARING TO GO: Munster are looking to get off to a winning start when they kick of their URC campaign. Pic: ©INPHO/Ben Brady

New faces and a rejuvenated cast of familiar faces will combine at Thomond Park this evening as Munster bid to put a smile back on the faces of any rugby supporters in need of solace following Ireland’s World Cup exit.

The province’s BKT URC title defence gets underway against South Africa’s Sharks with attack coach Mike Prendergast seeking improvement from the side which ended a 12-year wait for silverware in Cape Town less than five months ago. Certainly an upgrade on last season’s opening couple of months, when Munster lost five of their first seven matches, would be top of the priority list as Graham Rowntree and his coaching staff embark on a second campaign at the controls.