"Paul suffered a setback during the week and is not able to train today, " explained Declan Kidney, " so in the circumstances couldn't be included in the squad."

Anthony Horgan, who was selected to play against Ulster last weekend picked up a  hamstring strain during the week and his absence opens the door for Doug Howlett to take his place on the wing.

Munster: Shaun Payne; Brian Carney, Rua Tipoki, Lifeimi Mafi, Doug Howlett; Ronan O'Gara capt, Peter Stringer:  Marcus Horan, Jerry Flannery,  John Hayes; Donncha O'Callaghan, Mick O'Driscoll;  Denis Leamy, David Wallace,  Anthony Foley.Replacements: Frank Sheahan,Tony Buckley, Donnacha Ryan, Alan Quinlan, Tomas O'Leary, Paul Warwick, Kieran Lewis,