Galwey arrived back into Dublin Airport last night, following the four day squad session in Belfast, before setting off for his home in Kilkenny. "Of course it's disappointing to be left out and particularly after being captain but that's the way it goes. Paul is a fine player and I'm delighted for him. No it doesn't get easier, makes the journey home that bit longer but there is a little consolation seeing Paul in there instead of me."

Forwards: Shane Byrne (Leinster), Peter Clohessy (Munster), Simon Easterby (Llanelli), Anthony Foley (Munster), John Hayes (Munster), Gary Longwell (Ulster), Eric Miller (Leinster), Paul O'Connell (Munster), Malcolm O'Kelly (Leinster), Frank Sheahan (Munster), David Wallace (Munster), Paul Wallace (Leinster) Keith Wood (Harlequins).

Backs: Girvan Dempsey (Leinster), Guy Easterby (Llanelli), Denis Hickie (Leinster), Shane Horgan (Leinster), Tyrone Howe (Ulster), David Humphreys (Ulster), John Kelly (Munster), Brian O'Driscoll (Leinster), Ronan O'Gara (Munster), Peter Stringer (Munster).