Ospreys director of coaching Scott Johnson says the Magners League can now claim to be a hugely competitive competition with a 'different philosophy' to any other tournament.

Benetton Treviso's head coach believes the inclusion of Italian sides in the Magners League will enhance rugby fortunes in the nation for generations to come.

This Saturday Aironi will make their Magners League debut facing Munster at Musgrave Park in Cork (kick-off at 7.30 p.m., 8.30 p.m. in Italy).

The Leinster team to face the Glasgow Warriors in Friday night's Magners League opener at Firhill (KO: 7.05pm) has been named.

In the Aironi team there's one player for whom Saturday will be a special day.

Aironi Rugby are now less than a fortnight away from their Magners League debut and the Italian newcomers insist they are not here to simply make up the numbers.

Celtic Rugby is pleased to announce that Italian Pay-DTT broadcaster, Dahlia TV, will be showing live Magners League games played in Italy next season.

Italian international second row Quintin Geldenhuys has been named as Aironi Rugby's captain for their debut season in the Magners League.

New Italian franchise Aironi Rugby have been hit with an early injury problem ahead of their debut season in the Magners League.

Aironi Rugby will launch their competitive career in Cork on the opening weekend of the 10th anniversary season of the Magners League after Munster announced the venues for their 11 home games this season.