Munster have received a massive boost with the news Ireland second-row Paul O'Connell is on course to return to action before the end of the season.
It was initially feared the province's captain would miss the rest of the season after damaging his ankle in the Irish derby against Leinster earlier this month but in a statement released by the former European Champions yesterday, the news looked a lot more positive.
"Paul O'Connell could yet play a part in Munster's season following further tests on his injured ankle," read the statement.
"O'Connell had his injury reassessed in Dublin yesterday evening and the prediction is that he could be back training in four weeks time.
"That of course would mean that if Munster were to progress to the final of either Amlin Challenge Cup or Magners League, O'Connell could be involved."
Munster made it through to the last four of the Amlin Challenge Cup thanks to victory over Brive in a thrilling encounter in the South of France last weekend.
And they now host English Premiership side Harlequins at Thomond Park on Saturday April 30 for a place in the final.
With the final five weeks away, victory over Harlequins would see O'Connell return to action at the Cardiff City Stadium on Friday May 20.