Graham Rowntree takes charge of his first game as Munster Head Coach when they take on Cardiff this weekend. Over a decade without silverware and Johann Van Graan failing to get the best out of this side, Rowntree knows he has to start the season with a victory to give the fans a much-needed boost. The way in which they crashed out to Ulster in the quarter finals showed the level of improvement that is needed ahead of this season.
Standing in their way in the opening weekend is Cardiff, who will be disappointed with their 14th place finish last season. However, they have made a statement over the summer with the recruitment of Liam Williams and Taulupe Faletau.
Here is all you need to know ahead of Cardiff vs Munster this weekend.
When is Cardiff v Munster?
Originally scheduled for Friday evening, the visit of The King now means Cardiff vs Munster will now take place on Saturday, with the game kicking off at Cardiff Arms Park at 3:05 P.M.
How can I watch Cardiff v Munster?
Live coverage is shown by RTÉ Two, with coverage beginning at 2.50.
READ HERE: Stephen Ferris Picks His Irish Players To Watch Ahead Of The New Season
Form Guide
After a disastrous defeat to a hugely under strength Leinster in the final round of league fixtures, Munster’s season ended with a 19-point defeat in Belfast at the hands of Ulster, in a game they never looked like winning. While players such as Tadhg Bernie, Gavin Coombes and Craig Casey all had good individual seasons, they failed to deliver as a team in the big games.
Rowntree will need a solid start to the season to build confidence into a side that has ultimately underachieved over the past few seasons.
Team News
Cardiff have named a strong side for their opening game of the season, with new signings Liam Williams and Taulupe Faletau in their starting 15, that also includes Josh Adams.
🔵⚫️ Y TÎM | LINE UP
🆚 @Munsterrugby
🏆 @URCOfficial
🏟️ @ArmsParkCardiff
📅 Saturday, Sept 17 (KO 3.05pm)
🎟️ https://t.co/7JSJw3vrk2@SanjayWills, @_ThomasYoung and @taulupe start with @lopeti21 on the bench as 🔵⚫️ kick off the new #BKTURC campaign with a CAP double header pic.twitter.com/u7u6tdKfES— Cardiff Rugby (@Cardiff_Rugby) September 16, 2022
Munster also have a new signing making his debut, with former All Blacks centre Michael Fekitoa starting at 12. Jack O'Donoghue captains a youthful side in Cardiff.
MUNSTER NAME TEAM FOR #CARvMUN
Brought to you by @nteslimited #SUAF pic.twitter.com/4p3VMuSNvC— Three Red Kings (@threeredkings) September 16, 2022
SEE ALSO: Munster's Season Opener Postponed Due To King's Visit
