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**dudeabides** · 03-16-2010, 07:49 PM

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Australia will again play midweek matches on their November tour of Europe, including a trip to face Munster at Thomond Park on November 16.

The Wallabies played Gloucester and Cardiff Blues in 2009 as well as attempting a Grand Slam tour, which was thwarted by Ireland's draw and Scotland's victory.

New Zealand played Munster on their 2008 Grand Slam tour and were run close in an 18-16 thriller, while Australia have come up short in Limerick on three occasions, in 1967, 1980 and in 1992.

Head coach Robbie Deans is pleased with the return of tour games and has hailed the benefits of increasing playing depth ahead of the 2011 Rugby World Cup.

"The additional non-Test matches that we have played on our last two northern hemisphere tours have been of great benefit to Australian rugby, in terms of exposing players, and we expect this trip to be no different," he said. "Last year, guys played their way into the Test side for our game against England during the midweek Tour match at Gloucester, while a few of the young players who made their debuts later on at Cardiff are now starring for their provinces in the Super 14, which highlights the benefit we have already had from these games.

"To be able to play Munster - one of the true powerhouse provinces of the European game - will be a great experience for our players, while also providing an excellent development opportunity."

Wallabies assistant coach Jim Williams, who spent six years at Munster as a player, a captain and later a forwards coach, said the game at Thomond Park will be an unforgettable occasion for the Aussies.

"It will be a huge night," he said. "Knowing the passion the people of Munster have for the game, and how they get behind their team, it's going to be a massive match for us. Matches against international sides are rare for club teams these days, and you saw what it meant to Munster two years ago when they last had the opportunity to play an international side.

"They led the All Blacks until late in the game before going down 18-16. That was a cracking game. The atmosphere inside Thomond Park looked incredible, and it surely lifted the players, as it will again when we play there. Munster has great depth."

Wallabies confirm Munster tour clash | Rugby Union | Australia | Rugby News | Scrum.com