But having faced Ulster during his time with Cardiff Blues, Laulala knows Ravenhill is not an easy place to pick up a result and he expects the crowd to provide a typically intimidating atmosphere.

"Ulster are a very good side,” he said. “The crowd is a big factor especially up there and they have been a big factor in their success over the last few years.

"We’re aware of that. We’re preparing for a big match and I think it’ll be the first really big test for us as well in terms of what we want to do."

Prior to his spell at Cardiff, Laulala played with a very successful Crusaders outfit, racking up 100 points in his 61 appearances and earning three Super14 winners’ medals with the New Zealand side.

Familiar with Munster from his time with Cardiff Blues, the centre was excited to be part of such a decorated team, comparing them to his former Super Rugby franchise.

"I look at Munster as similar to the Crusaders back at home.

"I was blessed enough to be part of such a successful era in the Crusaders. And I just saw so many similarities between the two clubs."

Laulala’s departure from Cardiff came after a new salary cap for the Welsh regional sides provoked a mass exodus with other big names such as Ben Blair, Dan Parks, Gethin Jenkins and Richie Rees also opting to leave the Blues.

But the Samoan-born flyer insists he didn’t rush into his move to Munster, choosing to visit the club first. But having got a sense of the tradition and ethos within the province he admits he was eager to join.

"Obviously I came and visited and met the boys and from then on I wanted to be part of it.

“I want to be part of the legacy and obviously try to create my own history as well.”