O'Connell
has been named among the replacements for the visit of Cardiff Blues, with the powerhouse lock having been sidelined since March.
Munster also welcome back Ireland internationals Denis Leamy, Keith Earls, Ronan O'Gara, Damien Varley, Tony Buckley, Mick O'Driscoll and Peter Stringer.
Blues boss Dai Young has been buoyed by the return of five internationals for the trip to Ireland.
Dan Parks, Richie Rees, Tom Shanklin, Sam Warburton and Gethin Jenkins come back into the side after being involved in the autumn internationals.
There is also a first Magners League start of the season for hooker Gareth Williams.
