Munster talisman back and geared to push for playoffs

INJURY UPDATE: Peter O’Mahony is back from injury and focused on helping Munster salvage a playoff spot when they face Ulster this weekend before he starts thinking about his retirement.

The former Ireland and Munster captain said there will be plenty of time to reflect on the highs and lows of his career when the boots get hung up in a few weeks, but Ulster on Friday night is the primary focus.

The winner of that match will probably head to the playoffs and seal the fate of the loser.

The 35-year-old O’Mahoney wants to finish on a high after shaking off a hamstring injury which saw him miss the 21-26 loss away to Cardiff last time out, which left them just outside the knockout places with two games to go.

Both games are at home, starting with Ulster in Thomond Park this Friday and then hosting Benetton the following weekend in Cork, a run-in that could allow the likes of O’Mahony and prop Stephen Archer to sign off with a game at their headquarters and then one in their native city.

Besides the return of O’Mahoney, Munster also welcome back Tom Ahern, Stephen Archer, Liam Coombes, John Hodnett, Oli Jager, Conor Murray and Josh Wycherley, who all return to training this week having missed the Cardiff clash.

On the injury front, Mike Haley, Gavin Coombes, Calvin Nash, Diarmuid Barron, and Craig Casey returned to action in Cardiff and came through the game with no issues.

On the coaching front, Performance Consultant Chris Boyd has completed his short-term contract with the province and returned home to New Zealand.

Thank You Pete!

Peter O’Mahony has announced that he will retire from professional rugby at the end of the season.

🔗https://t.co/lfIpikQ90M#SUAF 🔴 | #ThankYouPete | @peterom6 pic.twitter.com/RcV7TzTBGy

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— Munster Rugby (@Munsterrugby) February 27, 2025

A vastly experienced coach who provided invaluable support to our coaching team over the past five months, our thanks to Chris for his time at the province and wishing him the very best for the future.

Players who continue with their rehab are Jeremy Loughman (hamstring), Ethan Coughlan (hamstring), Billy Burns (shoulder), Shane Daly (hamstring), Dave Kilcoyne (Achilles), Edwin Edogbo (Achilles), Roman Salanoa (knee).