JUSTIN MELCK merits a special place in the heart of Munster supporters as he scored one of the province’s two tries in an 18-0 victory over Leinster at the RDS on Sunday, September 28th, 2008. The South African flanker-cum-number eight came to Ireland on a three-month contract because of Munster’s injury concerns in the backrow.

Melck arrived with an impressive pedigree having captained Western Province in the Currie Cup and played Super 14 for the Stormers. He agreed to a trial with Saracens after his Munster sojourn, and signed a two-year contract – he has renewed it since to 2012 – and became a first-choice player. He has played 22 matches for Saracens this season, scoring four tries and tomorrow is expected to start for the club in their Guinness Premiership semi-final at the Northampton Saints.