Another first for Jenkins

Celtic League previews: A career that has seen him become the first international player to score over 1,000 points (1,049), win 87 caps before retiring and play in a starring role in a winning Lions series (2-1) against South Africa in 1997 wouldn't have too many gaps.

But at 32 Neil Jenkins is looking forward to a first when he takes the field for the Celtic Warriors tonight against Munster. It is the first time the former Wales international has played at Thomond Park and he's looking forward to it.

"I've heard so much about the place that I'm really looking forward to it. I hope there'll be a big crowd so that I can savour the atmosphere. Munster have a huge reputation based on pride and passion. It's not often that at 32 you can start looking forward to a notable first in your career."

Munster coach Alan Gaffney will be hoping Jenkins doesn't enjoy himself too much and will have warned his side conceding penalties is akin to points with a player of the Welshman's calibre.

There is plenty of experience and guile in the Munster back line and with Jeremy Staunton settling into his best position of outhalf they should see plenty of possession. Former Ireland under-21 captain Stephen Keogh is named in the second row while Colm McMahon is in the back row in place of David Wallace, who has been called up to the national squad in Australia. Frankie Roche is at tighthead prop.

Munster won't care how they get over the finish line tonight as long as they win. They've toughed it out better recently but if they can avoid giving Jenkins opportunities, then they should be good enough.

MUNSTER: D Crotty, M McPhail, M Mullins, J Holland, M Lawlor; J Staunton, E Reddan; S Kerr, A Long, F Roche; T Hogan, S Keogh; D Leamy, J Williams (capt), C McMahon.

CELTIC WARRIORS: E Lewis; G Watt, S James, J Byrant (capt), A Havili; N Jenkins, P John; P Booth, M Rees, C Horsman; D Jones, N Budgett; M Lewis, R Parks, C Harris.

Referee: (tbc).

Last time out: Munster beat Glasgow (h) 26-10; Celtic Warriors beat Gwent Dragons (h) 19-12.

Leading points scorers: Munster - Jeremy Staunton 80; Celtic Warriors - Neil Jenkins 103.

Verdict: Munster.

MunstervCeltic Warriors Thomond Park, 7.30