Munster step up preparations for Toulon clash

Munster have begun preparations at the High Performance Centre ahead of Sunday’s Investec Champions Cup Pool 2 encounter against RC Toulon at Stade Félix Mayol.

After two rounds, Munster sit third in a tightly packed Pool 2. Bath Rugby currently lead the standings on six points, while Castres Olympique, Munster, Toulon and Edinburgh Rugby are all level on five points, underlining the importance of the upcoming fixture in France.

There were several injury updates following Munster’s recent outing in Belfast.

Flanker John Hodnett has undergone minor surgery on a thumb injury, with his return-to-play timeline yet to be confirmed. Back-rower Alex Kendellen will begin a period of rehabilitation after sustaining an ankle injury, with no fixed return date at this stage.

Centre Alex Nankivell is fit to train again after picking up a knock, while there was positive news for prop Oli Jager, who has returned to full team training following a head issue. His availability for Sunday’s match will be assessed later in the week.

In squad movement news, lock Mark Donnelly has returned to Munster after a three-week loan spell with Ealing Trailfinders, during which he featured in three matches.