The Barbarians’ team to face Tonga in Thomond Park on Friday night has been named and includes a few faces the local crowd will be familiar with.
Munster legend Donncha O’Callaghan will be back in his spirtual home as a player one last time. He's included in the side as well as current Munster props James Cronin and Brian Scott. Leinster's Jordi Murphy is also in the squad.
The Barbarians have included some exciting talent from elsewhere too. Samoan and Castres winger David Smith comes into the team with Geoff Parling and Taqele Naiyaravoro. The Baa-Baas lost 31-22 last week against New Zealand, and while most people enjoyed the match and the Barbarians' style of rugby, New Zealand coach Steve Hansen was predictably moany after the game.
The game against Tonga is the last of the Barbarians three game tour and a welcome return to the ground that saw them beat Ireland two years ago.
Barbarians president Micky Steele-Bodger was happy to be back in Thomond and paid tribute to the Munster fans:
The Barbarians are delighted to be returning to Limerick, where we've enjoyed success on the pitch and established a great rapport with Munster Rugby's knowledgeable supporters.
James Cronin was delighted to get the invitation:
I was watching the (New Zealand) game on TV at the weekend and chatting with my buddies about it, and it’s a special thing. You get to wear your club socks and represent where you’re from, and it’s such a prestigious club. It’s an opportunity everyone wants.
Prior to the game the first ever Barbarians women's side will play Munster, with kick-off at 4.45pm. The Barbarians Tonga game is set to start at 7.30pm.
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