End of era as Bull Hayes appears to be finished:

NO MORE BULL: Munster Legend Hayes finished at 38

Rugby icon John Hayes could have played his last game for Munster after the province confirmed they have no plans to extend his contract beyond the World Cup.  The legendary prop will turn 38 in November and was left out of the 45-man squad published by the province earlier this week, fuelling speculation that he is set to retire after the tournament in New Zealand.

The veteran was named in Declan Kidney's extended squad for the World Cup warm-up and reported for pre-season training at Carton House this week.  The Cappaghmore man has played 201 times for Munster, winning two Heineken Cups and two Celtic leagues during his 13-year stint. 

BIG HITTER:  Botha (bottom) has arrived in Munster (Ireland)

The Munster squad began pre - season training in Cork today, minus their Irish internationals.  Springbok World Cup winner BJ Botha had his first training session and 11 academy players have been handed full-time contracts for the 2011-'12 season.