European Cup record

Munster won their first European Cup in 2006, beating Biarritz Olympique 23-19 in the Cardiff final, with Ronan O’Gara kicking 13 points. The competition’s leading points-scorer then tallied 11 points two years later in the same stadium as Munster lifted the trophy for a second time, this time beating Toulouse 16-13.

Last season

Johann van Graan’s side won both of their Pool B games last season, beating Harlequins 21-7 at home and ASM Clermont Auvergne 39-31 away, but they were defeated 40-33 in the round of 16 by eventual winners Stade Toulousain during a thrilling contest at Thomond Park.

Head coach

Former South Africa forwards coach Van Graan joined Munster in 2017 following five years with the Springboks. Having not played at the highest level, Van Graan focused on coaching and landed his first role at South African side Blue Bulls in 2004. Van Graan later became forwards and attack coach there, winning the 2009 and 2010 Super Rugby tournament with the Pretoria-based side.

Key players

Munster boast talent across the backs and forwards, with British and Irish Lions forward Tadhg Beirne and scrum-half Conor Murray spearheading a strong Ireland contingent also including wings Andrew Conway and Keith Earls, centre Chris Farrell and flanker Peter O’Mahony. Fellow Irish international Joey Carbery, who has amassed 83 European Cup points, will no doubt provide a threat from fly-half, while the Irish province also have South Africa centre Damian de Allende and lock RG Snyman in their ranks.

Pool fixtures

Munster kick off their Heineken Champions Cup Pool B fixtures with a trip to Wasps on December 12, before hosting Castres Olympique on December 18. The Irish province then travel to Stade Pierre Fabre to face Castres again on January 14, before their final pool game at home to Wasps on January 23.

Two-time European champions Munster Rugby are the next side to be previewed as we look ahead to the 2021/22 Heineken Champions Cup.