Munster preparing for Champions Cup campaign

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Munster and Leinster switch their attention to the beginning of their Champions Cup campaigns next weekend.

Muster will make the trip to Bath and their former coach Johann van Graan.

They’ll monitor Jack O’Donoghue, who was withdrawn from the loss to Sharks in the URC, with a head knock.

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Meanwhile, Jean Kleyn, who was on international duty with the Springboks is likely available, as too new arrival Michael Alaalatoa.

Leinster look set to hand All Black Rieko Ioane his debut against Harlequins at the Aviva Stadium.

Joe McCarthy and Tommy O’Brien are both available to Leo Cullen, recovering from foot injury and return to play protocols.

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Andrew Porter’s arm injury will be further assessed this week.

Jacques Nienaber says speculation about his future has been blown out of context, insisting he’s fully committed to Leinster and that any decision beyond 2027 will be made with his family in mind.

The Leinster coach recently admitted he “misses the Springboks”, in an interview with Supersport, prompting talk of a World Cup reunion with Rassie Erasmus.

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But Nienaber says he was simply reflecting on his past, not hinting at an exit.

Erasmus has kept the door open for a potential return, but for now Nienaber says he’s grateful to be at Leinster — and talk of him leaving is premature