As expected, Munster will play host to their Celtic League final conquerors Leinster the week before their European Cup semi-final against Castres. Without a match since their European quarter-final win over Stade Francais in of January, this invaluable warm-up game is part of the re-arranged Guinness Interprovincial series, which also has Munster playing Ulster a fortnight before the European Cup final.

While Munster are entertaining Leinster on Friday, April 19th, in Musgrave Park, Connacht will welcome Ulster that same evening, though a date for the Connacht-Leinster game has still to be confirmed.

The Irish Youth squad will depart for Leeds on Wednesday, March 27th, to compete in a four-nations tournament where they will play against Wales, England and Scotland.

Rod Macqueen has been appointed Barbarians head coach for the invitation club's tour matches against England, Wales and Scotland.

Macqueen, who masterminded Australia's 1999 World Cup triumph, will be assisted by 111-cap former France centre Philippe Sella.

The Barbarians face England at Twickenham on May 26th, followed by Wales in Cardiff three days later and Scotland at Murrayfield on June 1st.