Munster’s management expect that, if they continue their positive progress, Flannery and O’Leary may be involved in Magners League action in mid-to-late September.

However, the news on Nick Williams' knee injury is not so good.

The big Auckland-born back rower, who injured himself in the recent pre-season win over Sale Sharks, will be out of action for up to six weeks following surgery last Friday.

Originally it was hoped that the injury might respond to rest, but further medical examination showed some cartilage damage and Williams underwent an operation last week.