An improved submerged entry nozzle is provided which is useful in the casting of aluminum killed molten steel. The nozzle has an improved slagline sleeve or collar which surrounds the outer portion of the nozzle to protect it from corrosion during the casting process. The slagline sleeve is made from resin bonded zirconia/graphite which has been formulated so that upon curing of the resin to form resite, there is a reduction in the contractile tendency which results in a reduction in stress fracturing. The reduction of the contractile tendency and the resulting resistance to stress fracturing is achieved by adding an effective amount of calcium oxide to the resin-zirconia-graphite mixture which is used to form the sleeve.