Muliaina edging closer to Connacht debut

The full-back, who amassed 100 caps for New Zealand before calling time on his international career in 2011, penned a one-year deal with Connacht in May.

But his debut has been delayed after he underwent surgery to his elbow, with head coach Pat Lam refusing him to rush him into action.

Instead Lam pencilled in the meeting with Zebre for the 34-year-old to make his Connacht bow - and that fixture is next up on Friday at the Sportsground.

The Irish province have made huge strides without Muliaina so far this season - currently sitting sixth in the GUINNESS PRO12 - and assistant coach Dan McFarland admits his inclusion into the fold serves as a huge boost.

"He trained fully last week so he's done the contact stuff, he's ready and available for selection," he told the Irish Times.

"It's great to have him out there - he's a 100-cap All Black."

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