The financial clout of Irish provinces is being tested again with reports this morning claiming that Munster are to lose two of their props at the end of the season.

James Cronin and BJ Botha are set to join Premiership clubs according to the Irish Independent. Cronin looks set to join London Irish with Botha heading south to Exeter Chiefs.

The loss of Cronin will especially come as a blow to head coach Anthony Foley. The 25-year-old has played twice for Ireland and came off the bench in last year's Six Nations win over Italy.

South African-born Botha joined Munster in 2008 from Munster. His contract expires at the end of the season, with Munster reportedly unwilling to offer the 34-year-old any more than a one-year deal.

If Cronin were to leave, it will come as a blow to Ireland head coach Joe Schmidt. Only yesterday it was reported that Leinster prop Marty Moore is to join Wasps at the end of the season.