Italian job to kick off Van Graan residency

JOHANN van Graan said he could taste success in the air on arriving at Munster’s training base at the University of Limerick this week.

The South African has succeeded from his countryman Rassie Erasmus in the Munster hot seat and will be at the helm for the first time when the province take on Zebre today.

“When I walked through those doors you can taste winning,” Van Graan said.

“I’ve been to spots like the New England Patriots, the Westpoint Academy, just north of New York, and places like Racing Metro; this ranks up there among the best in the world.

“I’m very fortunate to be apart of this and this is not all about me. It’s about Munster Rugby, the people working here and the people who have been here before.”

James Hart makes his first start at No.9 in place of the injured Duncan Williams following his summer move from Racing 92. Centre Sam Arnold is named after scoring his first two tries off the bench against the Dragons. Arnold replaces Chris Farrell, who will start for Ireland against Argentina.

Darren Sweetnam returns from Test duty to take his place on the wing.

Simon Zebo maintains his place at full-back, with Alex Wootton on the left wing and Rory Scannell at inside centre as JJ Hanrahan, who was 100 per cent off the tee with seven from seven last time out, partners Hart in the half-backs.

There are no changes to the forwards as Billy Holland captains the side having started every game of Munster’s campaign.