Munster face tough challenge in Pro12 against leaders Glasgow

This is as tough as it gets for Munster: a Glasgow side which are determined to keep their place at the top of the table and secure a home tie come playoff time.

Foley again names Denis Hurley as captain, who leads the side for the third consecutive game. In all the coach has made seven changes from last week's team.

There's an all-new frontrow. John Ryan and BJ Botha start on either side of Eusebio Guinazu with Jack O'Donoghue and Sean Dougall coming in to join CJ Stander in the backrow. Ronan O'Mahony and JJ Hanrahan also come in to join Andrew Conway in the back three.

Glasgow arrive with some confidence having beaten Ospreys last week but they are also giving some new faces starts for the first time.

In-form team

Connor Braid, the 24-year-old Canadian, comes in for his debut for the club at outhalf, while Murray McConnell is handed his first start at scrumhalf. It will be the 22-year-old McConnell’s fifth appearance for the club.

"After last weekend's win over Ospreys we now face another of the in-form teams in the Pro12 and we've had some massive games with Munster over the last couple of seasons," said Glasgow coach Gregor Townsend.

“They are sitting second in the league, just four points behind us, so we’re well aware of the importance of this game.

“A number of players could make their debuts for the club this weekend, which is a big opportunity for them to show what they can do and we’re also delighted to welcome Adam [Ashe] back into our squad.”

Being a home game and the official opening of their renamed ground may make this something of an occasion and Munster, being what they are, will be eager to win it. They have won their last seven matches in Cork.