As the Six Nations takes a momentary respite, attention swiftly turns back to the race for the Magners League.

Two of the more intriguing ties this weekend involve the title chasing duo of Munster and Leinster. On Friday evening, Declan Kidney’s side will hope to build on their recent impressive form, when they face a difficult challenge away to a resurgent Edinburgh.

Meanwhile on Saturday the top two go head-to-head in Dublin as Leinster host Cardiff Blues at the RDS.

With the current starting Irish fifteen being excluded from both line-ups, the respective provincial coaches will be hoping that their fringe squad players can step up and make their mark on proceedings.

Over the past three seasons Munster’s away form in the Magners League has been less than convincing. From their last twenty games away from home, their sum total of victories against their Celtic neighbours is a measly seven.

That’s hardly the kind of return required by a team with title chasing aspirations. Granted the province has been forced to play a large percentage of these games with seriously depleted squads, but these international requirements are not the only reason for the less than satisfactory win ratio.

While Munster would never admit to playing favourites, it is quite obvious that more preparation and respect is paid to the Heineken Cup and this can be to the detriment of their other performances.

However, considering their lofty position within this season’s table, chances are you’ll witness a more focused and determined display from the province on Friday night.

Despite the absence of the majority of his starting forward unit, Declan Kidney can still call upon a wealth of experience and talent for the Edinburgh clash. Ireland’s Tony Buckley and Frank Sheahan will line-out in the front-row, while Mick O’Driscoll and Paul O’Connell will both be available for selection in the second-row.