Liam Toland's decision to switch from his native Munster to captain Leinster this season has re-ignited his career.

In 1993, Toland went on the Development tour of Zimbabwe, Namibia and South Africa, and his reputation was enhanced following a series of excellent performances. But having to combined his role as an officer in the Army with playing rugby was a serious handicap in advancing his cause for a call to the senior national side.

Injury also intervened, and Toland was sidelined for over a year with a neck and shoulder problem. Last season he returned and joined Lansdowne, and began to catch the eye towards the latter half of the season.

Aside from leading Leinster to notable triumphs over Leicester and Stade Francais in the European Cup, his performances are pushing him closer to the senior national squad.