JJ Hanrahan ruled out after failing HIA

Munster fly-half JJ Hanrahan will sit out Saturday’s United Rugby Championship clash with Cardiff at Thomond Park after failing a Head Injury Assessment in last week’s win over the Scarlets.

The 32-year-old was withdrawn at halftime on his third debut for the province and must now follow return-to-play protocols.

Hooker Niall Scannell, who also underwent an HIA during the Scarlets match, has been cleared and will be available. Scannell marked his 200th Munster appearance in the 34-21 victory in Llanelli.

With Hanrahan ruled out, Jack Crowley, who kicked three conversions after replacing him, is expected to start at fly-half.

Munster are still without six players recovering from short- to medium-term injuries: Tom Farrell (calf), John Hodnett (cheek), Diarmuid Kilgallen (ankle), Michael Milne (calf), John Ryan (elbow) and Andrew Smith (chest). Updates on their fitness are expected later this week.

Saturday’s round-two meeting is the only URC fixture this weekend featuring two unbeaten sides. Cardiff opened their campaign with a 33-20 win over the Lions, while Munster will aim to impress in new head coach Clayton McMillan’s first competitive home match in charge.