Connacht anticipates returning Ireland players for upcoming matches

Connacht Rugby is looking forward to the return of their Ireland players ahead of an important match against Munster. This game will take place in Castlebar in two weeks. The team currently ranks ninth in the United Rugby Championship (URC) with only five games left in the season. They will face the Ospreys in Swansea this Saturday, but they will be without key players like Bundee Aki, Mack Hansen, Finlay Bealham, and captain Cian Prendergast. Prendergast is not playing after withdrawing from the squad due to illness. The other regulars have been given the week off to rest. However, scrum-half Caolin Blade will be available for the game against Ospreys. Connacht is optimistic after winning two URC games recently, which improved their league position. Scrum and contact coach Cullie Tucker highlighted the importance of maintaining momentum. "Spirits are high, we're training well," he said. Connacht needs to focus on winning their upcoming matches as they aim for more victories later in the season, especially with knockout rounds ahead. Tucker commented on the challenge posed by the Ospreys, who recently lost narrowly to league leaders Leinster but secured a win against Glasgow. The Ospreys have a strong team, including former Wales international Justin Tipuric. Tucker praised their skills, especially their effective maul and quality players. Connacht aims to prepare for this tough competition, stressing the importance of their own set-piece and physicality in the match. The game against Ospreys starts at 5:15 PM and will be televised live.