Mils Muliaina set to make Connacht debut

All Black centurion Mils Muliaini is available to make his debut for Connacht in Friday's Guinness Pro 12 fixture against Zebre.

The former All Black captain has been fully cleared to play after recovering from elbow surgery in April while playing for the Chiefs in last season’s Super 15.

“He trained fully last week so he’s done the contact stuff, he’s ready and available for selection,” says assistant coach Dan McFarland.

“Its great to have him out there - he’s a 100-cap All Black.”

Muliaina has been training at fullback in the absence of the up-and-coming Galwegian Darragh Leader, who has been involved in the Ireland squad sessions, while centre Bundi Aki, who made an earlier than expected debut against Ospreys, and latest recruit Tom McCartney are all expected to make an appearance on Friday.

Although signed as a hooker, McCartney, is also a prop and he could find himself helping to anchor the scrum on Friday with Connacht's front options once again taking an injury hit. Prop JP Cooney is the latest casualty, having fractured his hand in training, and the former Garryowen man will be out of action for up to five weeks. He joins Nathan White, who had arm surgery two weeks ago and is likely to be sidelined for up to three months, while Connacht are also awaiting news on the availability of Rodney Ah You, who has been on the bench for Ireland in the opening two autumn Tests.

Also ruled out this week are lock Ali Muldowney with ongoing concussive symptoms, and wing Niyi Adeolokun who suffered high ankle sprain against the Ospreys.