The Guinness Pro14 kicks off in just two days as Leinster prepare for their opening game visit to Cardiff on Friday, but as far as former Irish winger Luke Fitzgerald is concerned it is their southern rivals who are ones to watch this year.
Munster do not get their campaign underway until Saturday, with a home tie against Toyota Cheetahs up first. The red army have enjoyed their first full pre-season under Johann van Graan and have made moves to address their out-half woes with the signing of Joey Carbery. While Leinster are justifiably favourites and Scarlets just behind, Fitzgerald claimed Munster are best placed to claim the Pro14 title.
I've gone with Munster. I think they have recruited very well, Tadhg Beirne and Joey Carbery will be big additions there and they have lots of quality already. Johann van Graan with a full pre-season under his belt. I think Felix Jones and Jerry Flannery, an exciting coaching ticket as well.
Fitzgerald did confess to going for a slightly 'different' prediction but was full of praise for Ireland Under 20s captain Caelan Doris, who could 'push Jack Conan hard for that number eight jersey.'
Prediction time!#GuinnessPRO14 winners ✔️
Top try scorer ✔️
Player of the season ✔️
Breakout candidate ✔️@lukefitz11 & Martyn Williams give their predictions for the season. #PRLO14 pic.twitter.com/k4KonKOXI1— eir Sport (@eirSport) August 29, 2018
