Munster Facing Injury Challenges Ahead of URC Semi-Final Clash with Glasgow Warriors
As Munster gears up for their United Rugby Championship semi-final showdown against Glasgow Warriors at Thomond Park on Saturday evening, the Irish province has received a mix of injury news.
Graham Rowntree’s side booked their place in the last four after defeating the Ospreys 23-7 last Friday, with Jack Crowley’s impressive kicking proving crucial in sealing the quarter-final victory.
The Munster camp was boosted by the return from injury of Antoine Frisch, and it appears another key centre, Alex Nankivell, is also set for a timely comeback. Nankivell, who was recently crowned the signing of the URC campaign on Planet Rugby, has been a revelation since joining from the Chiefs and his return will be a welcome addition.
“A certain New Zealand centre, Nanks, I’m hoping will be back in the mix,” stated Munster coach Rowntree.
This positive news comes after hooker Diarmuid Barron made his comeback in the quarter-final triumph, having spent five months on the sidelines due to injury.
However, the injury woes have not completely subsided for Munster, with an update on the status of Thomas Ahern, Rory Scannell and Joey Carbery. Ahern, who has been a standout performer this season, will undergo surgery on an ankle/lower leg issue, while Scannell (ankle) also requires surgery. Fly-half Carbery, who had recently worked his way back into form, has played his last Munster fixture of the season due to a thumb injury.
“Their seasons are over, unfortunately. It’s no way for Joey to finish his Munster career, I feel for the kid,” expressed Rowntree.
The coach acknowledged the significant impact of these absences, particularly for Ahern, who has been a revelation and was generating buzz about a potential international call-up.
As Munster prepares for the crucial semi-final clash, they will need to overcome the challenges posed by these injury setbacks and rally their squad to secure a spot in the United Rugby Championship final.
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