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Munster in contact with EPCR as bulk of squad returns from South Africa

Munster have confirmed that the 34 players and staff that left South Africa last night have final...



Munster have confirmed that the 34 players and staff that left South Africa last night have finally arrived back in Ireland. 

Fourteen individuals who tested positive for COVID-19 while in South Africa remain isolating in Cape Town.

Munster say they're in contact with the EPCR regarding this month's Heineken Champions Cup opener away to Waspp.

In line with travel restrictions confirmed by Health Minister Stephen Donnelly earlier this week, all of those members of the Munster party who have managed to return home must isolate for ten days.

The province are due to play away at the Ricoh Arena on December 15.

Munster have assembled a scratch squad made up of those who didn't travel to the game - both senior and academy players - as well as members of their NTS (National Talent Squad) and PTS (Provincial Talent Squad). Academy manager Ian Costello will oversee the preparations.

Cardiff are in a similar position to Munster. And with the EPCR seemingly unwilling to postpone any fixtures involving sides temporarily stranded in South Africa, Cardiff said they "must still fulfil" their Champions Cup fixtures with Toulouse and Halequins.

In a collegiate moment, a Munster statement read, "We would like to wish our URC colleagues at Cardiff Rugby all the best as they plan to depart South Africa on Thursday morning."

They added, "Our thoughts continue to be with the 14 players and staff of Munster Rugby who remain at the designated quarantine hotel in Cape Town and are doing well.

The many well wishes and messages of support for the remaining players and staff are greatly appreciated.

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Covid-19 Heineken Champions Cup Munster Omicron South Africa United Rugby Championship