Back in action.

Munster will play their first fixture of the 2018/19 calendar this Friday evening, when they host Declan Kidney’s London Irish in a pre-season friendly at the newly-renovated Irish Independent Park.

After an injury ridden campaign last season, Tommy O’Donnell has made a full recovery and has been training with the squad for the last number of weeks. Jean Kleyn, who ended last season with a routine ankle procedure, has also returned to full training.

Stephen Archer is still recovering from a pec injury, but is expected to make a return in the opening stage of the new campaign.

Sammy Arnold (knee) and Niall Scannell (shoulder) required respective minor knee and shoulder procedures during the off-season and are progressing well with their return to play rehabilitation.

Chris Cloete (groin), Tyler Bleyendaal (neck) and Conor Oliver (toe) are all being managed by the medical department, with Oliver undergoing surgery earlier this week after sustaining a foot injury during a gym session.

Those continuing to rehab longer-term injuries include Chris Farrell (knee), Liam O’Connor (knee), Jack O’Donoghue (knee), and Ronan O’Mahony (ankle).