The crucial effects that Lifeimi Mafi and Rua Tipoki have had on Munster’s fortunes have been well documented over the past seven months. An added level of dynamism has been added by the merging of this Kiwi duo, but the impending clash with Toulouse may provide the toughest test of all. Save for the Wasps centres of Ricky Flutely and Fraser Waters, Saturday’s game will provide the ultimate assessment of the effectiveness of Munster’s newest partnership.

However, it’s not all doom and gloom from Declan Kidney’s perspective as events have conspired to work in his favour. Doubts still remain over the match fitness of Fritz as the centre continues to recover from a broken leg. While at the same time, Jauzion’s pace has dropped slightly over the last twelve months due to corrective surgery on a cruciate ligament. It will be interesting to see if the Munster coach uses this opportunity to attack the French side where many perceive them to be strongest.