MUNSTER’S DIRECTOR OF rugby Rassie Erasmus has handed centre Dan Goggin his first competitive start for the province in tomorrow afternoon’s Pro12 season-opener against Scarlets (3pm, Sky Sports 1).

Erasmus, in his first game in charge, has also included the likes of Ireland internationals Tommy O’Donnell, Simon Zebo and Kiwi out-half Tyler Bleyendaal in his starting XV.

Zebo has been named at fullback with Ronan O’Mahony and Darren Sweetnam on the wings.

Goggin will be joined in midfield by a familiar face with former academy colleague Rory Scannell lining out at inside centre, while the experienced Duncan Williams will partner Bleyendaal in the halfbacks.

James Cronin, Niall Scannell and John Ryan make up the front row with Dave Foley, the only change from the starting XV which defeated Worcester Warriors last Friday, coming in to partner captain Billy Holland in the second row.

It’s as you were in the back row with Dave O’Callaghan, Tommy O’Donnell and Jack O’Donoghue all remaining in situ.

Erasmus also also plenty of experience ready to introduce from the bench with Dave Kilcoyne,Donnacha Ryan, Ian Keatley and Cian Bohane named among the replacements.

Munster (v Scarlets)

15. Simon Zebo
14. Darren Sweetnam
13. Dan Goggin
12. Rory Scannell
11. Ronan O’Mahony
10. Tyler Bleyendaal
9. Duncan Williams

1. James Cronin
2. Niall Scannell
3. John Ryan
4. Dave Foley
5. Billy Holland (c)
6. Dave O’Callaghan
7. Tommy O’Donnell
8. Jack O’Donoghue

Replacements:
16. Kevin O’Byrne
17. Dave Kilcoyne
18. Brian Scott
19. Jean Kleyn
20. Donnacha Ryan
21. Tomás O’Leary
22. Ian Keatley
23. Cian Bohane

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