Oli Jager Returns to Start for Munster Against Ulster Munster prop Oli Jager is set to make his first start since January as the team’s only change for Saturday’s United Rugby Championship derby against Ulster at Thomond Park. Jager returns from injury and will start at tighthead prop, replacing Michael Ala’alatoa in the front row. The Ireland international last started for Munster in January before being sidelined. His return comes after a strong performance off the bench in Munster’s 45-15 bonus-point victory over Benetton in Treviso last weekend. Head coach Clayton McMillan confirmed Jager as the sole alteration to the side that defeated Benetton, with all other players retaining their places. The move signals Munster’s intent to strengthen their scrum ahead of a crucial clash with Ulster, who currently sit fifth in the URC standings, just one point ahead of Munster in sixth. The front row will feature Jeremy Loughman at loosehead, Diarmuid Barron at hooker and Jager at tighthead. Jean Kleyn and captain Tadhg Beirne lock down the second row, while the back row comprises Tom Ahern, John Hodnett, and Gavin Coombes. Calvin Nash wins his 100th cap for Munster and starts on the wing alongside Tom Farrell and Andrew Smith. Jack Crowley and Craig Casey operate at scrum-half and fly-half, with Alex Nankivell and Tom Farrell in midfield. Munster remain in contention for a top-four finish, which would secure a home quarter-final. A win over Ulster would move them within striking distance of the play-off places, with games against Connacht and the Lions still to come. The match kicks off at 5:30pm and will be broadcast live on RTÉ.
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