There are plenty of new faces in both teams as Munster and Connacht go head-to-head at Thomond Park, but for the supporters it is the returning heroes who will provide most cheer.

Billy Burns starts for Munster as Mack Hansen returns for Connacht in the United Rugby Championship game at Thomand Park.

Nor is Abrahams Munster’s only fresh face. Tom Farrell and Billy Burns make Munster debuts with Burns hoping to make the sort of impact that once caught the eye of Farrell. Released from Ulster, the outhalf teams up with Irish scrumhalf Craig Casey with a lot of neutral fans watching how that partnership blossoms over the season.

Connacht head coach Pete Wilkins has named his match day squad for tomorrow’s BKT United Rugby Championship opener away to Munster (kick-off 5.30 p.m.), with Mayo native Dave Heffernan taking his place in the starting XV at hooker.

Munster and Connacht have named their teams for their United Rugby Championship opener this weekend. The two Irish provinces will get the first interprovincial derby of the new season underway from Thomond Park on Saturday evening at 5.

MACK HANSEN WILL make his first start for Connacht since suffering a serious shoulder injury on New Year’s Day, as the province face Munster in their URC opener. Hansen will start on the wing with Santiago Cordero taking up the full-back position after featuring for Argentina in the Rugby Championship.