Gordon Wood to make first Munster start in URC clash with Sharks

Academy centre Gordon Wood will line up in his first start for Munster when the province hosts the Sharks at Thomond Park on Saturday, with kick‑off at 5.30 pm.

Munster coach Clayton McMillan said the selection marks a special day for Wood, describing him as “an impressive young man” and expressing excitement about the youthful backline.

Former Leinster player Rob Russell, who has been training with the squad, also makes his Munster debut on the wing. The starting XV includes Ben O’Connor, Shay McCarthy and Russell in the back three, with Alex Nankivell and Wood in midfield, while Ben O’Donovan and JJ Hanrahan occupy the half‑back positions.

In the forwards, Josh Wycherley, Marnus van der Merwe and Kieran Brookes form the front row, supported by Evan O’Connell and Fineen Wycherley in the engine room. Seán Edogbo, Jack O’Donoghue (captain) and Brian Gleeson complete the back‑row.

McMillan highlighted the challenge of facing a Sharks side that have begun the season strongly, noting Munster’s improvements in the scrum, maul, phase play and attack over the summer. He added that returning players such as Edwin Edogbo and Lee Barron bolster the squad.

Source: Limerick Post. Photo: Ollie Craig / Pexels.