Although it will be around Rabo rounds 3 and 4 before he will have a near full complement to choose from, Penney probably has a few positions to ponder before deciding his starting 23.

Tommy O'Donnell's injury (bruised ribs) provides an oppportunity at openside although the Clanwilliam man will be back in training next week looking to oust whoever has the seven shirt on Saturday.

Niall Ronan, the man in possession up to the time of his injury, is back in full training, he took part in full contact yesterday for the first time this season and his return will make for a very interesting battle for the seven jersey, with Sean Dougall another to impress in pre-season games.

Another back-rower Dave O'Callaghan (calf) will be back in two to three weeks to stake his claim with Ian Nagle about a month off a return while the likes of Paul O'Connell, Donnacha Ryan, Peter O'Mahony, Conor Murray, Ronan O'Gara and Keith Earls are all expected to be in consideration round about the Ulster (Ravenhill) game or the visit of Newport Gwent Dragons to Thomond Park (September 22nd).

Donncha O'Callaghan and Mike Sherry, are likely to see Rabo action sooner rather than later, while Felix Jones is well on course for his predicted November return.