Munster vs Stormers Preview & Tips - Munster set to cruise to handicap win

This will be the first match between Munster and the Stormers.

Munster finished last season as runner-up to Leinster in the United Rugby Championship. They lost the final 16-6.

This season they want to push on to take the title off their Irish rivals and made a good start last weekend. They beat the Sharks 42-17 with a very convincing second half display.

Munster did not have it all their own way, especially in the opening quarter where the Sharks put huge pressure on them. Solid defence however kept the visitors at bay before they found their stride to win with ease.

Johan van Graan has made four changes to the side that beat the Sharks. Chris Farrell remains out injured while Damian de Allende is on international duty.

Calvin Nash and Shane Daly start at flank with Keith Earls coming it at outside centre. Keynan Knox will start at tighthead.

RG Snyman made his long awaited return from the bench last weekend but is likely to remain there for a few weeks.

The Stormers had a disappointing Currie Cup campaign recently despite making the playoffs. The team continues to struggle to find an identity and there are plenty of problems higher up in the union.

Nevertheless they would have been hoping for a good start to the United Rugby Championship as they visited Italy to play Benetton. It was a very scrappy game in which the Stormers had minimal possession. Their set piece struggled but their defence kept them in the game.

The Stormers ended up suffering a 22-18 defeat. It was far from a big defeat but Benetton are not particularly one of the stronger sides in the competition.

Head coach John Dobson has made six changes to his side this weekend. Brok Harris will make his 94th appearance for the union. He has also played over 100 times for the Newport Dragons so will be familiar with European conditions.

On loan Stefan Ungerer starts at scrumhalf and is partnered with Manie Libbok at flyhalf. Dan du Plessis starts at centre while Leolin Zas comes in on the wing.