LOWDOWN ON CASTRES

HOW THEY BEAT YOU

They will thrive on mauling exchanges and Munster must rediscover an aspect of the game that has wavered of late. Castres wallow in the three-minute scrum but then, suddenly, can explode into life with a cross-kick or grubber.

HOW YOU BEAT THEM

Indiscipline will handicap Munster here as it did in the Aviva last weekend if it hasn’t been addressed; physical intensity is one thing but it must be matched by mental dexterity; knowing where the line is and when it can be crossed. An English referee may be a slight advantage as they seek to gain an influence at the breakdown.

KEY MAN Tyler Bleyendaal

Bleyendaal starts despite fears his placekicking percentages, well down on Ian Keatley, are threatening to undermine not only his confidence, but that of the team who are winning him so many missable chances. Needs a performance of authority.