Jack Carty poised for Connacht return against Munster

By Tony Tighe

Tuesday 12 April 2016 17:04, UK

Jack Carty could make his return from a ruptured spleen in Connacht's crucial PRO12 derby against Munster on Saturday.

Carty was injured while on a water slide in Dubai in February and later had an operation to remove the damaged organ.

With Craig Ronaldson and AJ McGinty also sidelined due to injury, Connacht have been reliant on fourth-choice fly-half Shane O'Leary, who kicked nine points in last weekend's last-gasp loss to Grenoble in the Challenge Cup.

However, Carty returned to full training this week, as did centre Rory Parata, and both are in contention for Saturday's clash at the Sportsground, live on Sky Sports 5 HD from 7pm.

South African winger Danie Poolman has been ruled out after injuring his foot against Grenoble, while Jake Heenan faces up to four weeks on the sidelines with an ankle problem.

Connacht are level on points with Leinster at the top of the PRO12. After Munster on Saturday, they travel to Treviso and host Glasgow in their final two regular season games.

Pat Lam could also have Tiernan O'Halloran (quad) and AJ McGinty (shoulder) available for the run-in. Connacht hope they will be available for selection in the coming weeks.