Munster have been by far the most impressive of the Irish provinces over the past three seasons.

The current provincial champions, their record in Europe over the past two years is evidence enough that they are going to be a force to be reckoned with again.

Declan Kidney, the only Irish coach in charge of a province, is now in his third term in charge.

The Munster coach has been boosted by the surprise news that Wallaby lock John Langford will be available for most of Munster's campaign.

Langford is still in Australia and will not be available for their Celtic League opener against Edinburgh but he is expected to return to Ireland in early September.

By many people's reckoning, Langford was one of the reasons why Munster made one Heineken Cup final two years ago, and should have made another last season.

Kidney has also snapped up Wallaby No 8 Jim Williams as a replacement, although where to put the big back-row forward is another thing.

Munster are already blessed with a very attack-minded trio, all of whom are Irish internationals.

David Wallace, indeed, became the third member of his family following Richard and Paul, to play for the Lions.

Along with Alan Quinlan and No 8 Anthony Foley, they are virtually set in cement at the rear of the Munster scrum.

That is one area that could be a problem this season.