Reds boosted by Nankivell return

MUNSTER’S hopes of pulling off a second ambush in France in a week have been boosted by the successful appeal of Alex Nankivell’s ban.

- MICHAEL SCULLY

Nankivell was present in La Rochelle for the famous Champions Cup last 16 victory last Saturday, but only as a spectator after he was red carded in the 25th minute of the URC win at Connacht the previous week.

The top-class centre picked up a two-week ban in a disciplinary hearing but the appeal was heard on Wednesday afternoon and the province confirmed yesterday that the suspension has been lifted, which frees Nankivell up to play against Bordeaux Begles on Saturday.