Leinster v Munster Build-up Tread

I think an issue for Munster (and this will almost always be ongoing) is that you really need either a) a squad with significant depth of talent or b) a very good injury profile (which is increasingly difficult). The rationale in particular for the former is that players will inevitably move on and you need new players ready and available to step straight into the jersey and perform to the same level if standards are to be maintained.

In the next 15 months, it's conceivable that POM, Murray, Archer and John Ryan all walk away. There might be people ready to step in to their jerseys but the overall 23 (and it's very much a 23 man game now) will weaken without significant signings or younger players reaching another level.

Consistent success is almost always a matter of trying to improve a team whilst fighting the clock for certain players. In 18 months, Tadhg Beirne will be almost 34, RG Snyman is potentially gone elsewhere. It's a tough situation. I'd advocate for a couple more NIQ signings for Munster (and Ulster) to plug some gaps if it can be worked into the finances.

This weekend will largely depend on what sort of team Leinster field and their mindset for the game ahead of the following weekend. But the Munster bench will be inexperienced at best and, more likely, a stand out weak area.

If POM and Barron are ruled out, I imagine the bench will be something along the lines of Buckley, Wycherley, Salanoa, Edogbo, JOD, Kendellan, Cronin, Scannell. That bench can come on and dig in for the team to hold out Leinster but if they're coming into a game and behind, I don't see them as having the ability to change things.

Yep. I don't have any issue with perceived biases because of teams he played for. There is no player in the Munster setup whom he would have played with.

I just don't feel he has a good feel for the game. I think he's too pedantic about stuff and too inconsistent about when he's pedantic about it leading to, as you said, a whistle-fest.

But to pay him his dues. I think he has improved this season

Why not get a Welsh, Scottish or Italian referee. Amateur hour from the URC.