Munster unchanged for Castres clash as O’Mahony comes through injury scare

An unchanged starting XV has been named for Sunday’s round 6 Champions Cup clash against Castres Olympique in Thomond Park. It’s the first time this season that Munster haven’t made any changes for a game.

Peter O’Mahony has recovered from an ankle knock to captain the side.

International hooker Niall Scannell returns from the rib injury sustained against Ulster on New Year’s Day to be named in the replacements.

The all-international backline remains intact once again with Simon Zebo, Andrew Conway and last weekend’s double try scorer Keith Earls forming the back three.

Rory Scannell partners Chris Farrell in midfield, while Conor Murray and Ian Keatley continue as the half-backs.

The front row is made up of Stephen Archer, Dave Kilcoyne and Rhys Marshall as Billy Holland is partnered by Jean Kleyn in the second row. The pack is completed by a back row of O’Mahony, Chris Cloete and CJ Stander.

Niall Scannell, James Cronin and John Ryan make up the front row replacements. Darren O’Shea and Jack O’Donoghue complete the forward reserves as Duncan Williams, JJ Hanrahan and Alex Wootton provide the backline cover.

Munster: Simon Zebo; Andrew Conway, Chris Farrell, Rory Scannell, Keith Earls; Ian Keatley, Conor Murray; Dave Kilcoyne, Rhys Marshall, Stephen Archer; Jean Kleyn, Billy Holland; Peter O’Mahony (C), Chris Cloete, CJ Stander.

Replacements: Niall Scannell, James Cronin, John Ryan, Darren O’Shea, Jack O’Donoghue, Duncan Williams, JJ Hanrahan, Alex Wootton.