The remarkable jinx on Leinster's out-half position continued yesterday when their new acquisition from Otago Eddie Hekenui strained a calf muscle in training. He will undergo a fitness test tomorrow, with Andy Dunne called in as cover.

The IRFU have advertised for a promotions and marketing manager, who will "liaise with the marketing committee of the IRFU and undertake the implementation of a dynamic marketing and communications plan, which will portray rugby as a vibrant and exciting pastime and increase awareness of the game throughout the country," according to a union statement yesterday. "Sponsor relations will also form an important part of the brief."

The kick-off time for Munster's opening European Cup game against Newport on Saturday week at Thomond Park has been brought forward from 3p.m. to 2p.m. to avoid a direct clash with the All-Ireland football final replay between Kerry and Galway.