Munster make three changes to starting XV for derby clash with Leinster

Christmas has taken its toll on the Muster squad.

Conor Murray. Denis Hurley and BJ Botha were all named to start against Leinster in Thomond Park this evening (5.15), but have had to withdraw due to a combination of illness and injury. Hurley is at least well enough to take a place on the bench, with Rory Scannell replacing him in the centre but Murray (hip) and Botha (illness) have dropped out of the 23 altogether. Tomás O'Leary takes Murray's place at scrum-half, with Duncan Williams coming on to the bench, while John Ryan replaces tighthead Botha and Mario Sagario comes into the squad as a prop replacement, Munster: Andrew Conway, Keith Earls, Francis Saili, Rory Scannell, Simon Zebo; Tyler Bleyendaal, Tomas O'Leary; James Cronin, Mike Sherry, John Ryan; Dave Foley, Donnacha Ryan; Robin Copeland, Jack O'Donoghue, CJ Stander Capt Replacements: Niall Scannell, Dave Kilcoyne, Mario Sagario, Billy Holland, Tommy O'Donnell, Duncan Williams, Denis Hurley, Lucas Gonzalez Amorosino.