Munster sign NZ U20 star as 3 Ireland players and a Bok return to training

Munster have been boosted by the return of three Ireland squad members and a Springbok to training ahead of Saturday’s URC Round 12 clash with Zebre Parma at Thomond Park.

The province are preparing at the HPC for the 5.30pm kick-off in Limerick.

Edwin Edogbo, Tom Farrell and Michael Milne have all rejoined the squad from Ireland camp this week and are back in full training.

Tadhg Beirne, Craig Casey, Jack Crowley and Jeremy Loughman were all involved in Ireland’s record win at Twickenham on Saturday and will remain in camp ahead of their Round 4 games against Wales at the Aviva Stadium in twelve days time.

There is further positive news on the injury front. A statement reads: “On the injury front, there is good news for Alex Kendellen (ankle), Jean Kleyn (head), Calvin Nash (shoulder) and JJ Hanrahan (hamstring) as they all return to training this week.

“Tom Ahern is increasing his training load and a decision on his availability will be made later in the week.

“John Hodnett (hamstring), Oli Jager (foot), Conor Bartley (neck), Alex Nankivell (foot) and Evan O’Connell (shoulder) are unavailable this week.”

At the end of the injury update, the Limerick-based province quietly confirmed the signing of former New Zealand U20 scrum-half Ben O’Donovan from Canterbury on an 18-month deal.

The 21-year-old represented New Zealand at the 2024 World Rugby U20 Championship and previously came through the ranks at Linwood Rugby Club in Christchurch.