Bundee Aki returns for Connacht against Munster in URC

Bundee Aki will make his first appearance for Connacht Rugby since the summer tour of South Africa against Munster.

Aki comes straight into the starting XV for the URC interpro derby at Thomond Park, one of five changes from last week’s side that faced the Dragons.

“There’s no getting away from the fact last week wasn’t good enough” explained Head Coach Andy Friend. “So now it’s up to us all to put in the type of performance we know they’re capable of.

“Training this week has been good & Bundee’s return is a boost as he’ll give us his typical energy that is needed for an interpro”.

“Both games in Limerick last season ended with a single score between the two sides, so we know it’ll be a tight game. The team that is most consistent for the full 80 minutes and is clinical with the chances they create will be the team that wins it.”

Aki forms a new-look partnership with Sammy Arnold at centre. John Porch is drafted into the back three alongside fellow winger Mack Hansen and full-back Tiernan O’Halloran. Caolin Blade and Jack Carty are retained, with Carty named as captain for the game.

The front-row of Matthew Burke, Dave Heffernan and Finlay Bealham is unchanged, while Niall Murray comes into the second row alongside Ultan Dillane. The final switch sees Conor Oliver start at openside flanker, with Cian Prendergast on the opposite flank and Paul Boyle at number 8.

The Connacht management team have opted for a 6:2 split on the bench. Back rowers Abraham Papali’i and Jarrad Butler both included as well as Kieran Marmion. Summer arrival Greg McGrath is also in line for his Connacht debut after he was named as replacement loosehead prop.