MUNSTER HAVE TODAY announced four contract renewals with out-half Ian Keatley’s new deal the stand-out.
The Dubliner will now remain with Munster until at least 2017, extending his time in the province having moved south from Connacht in 2011.
The notable absentee from the list of contract renewals was JJ Hanrahan.
“We are extremely pleased that this group of players have committed their talents to the province,” head coach Anthony Foley said in a statement.
“Ian is into his fourth season with us and continues to grow, and impress. He leads by example with his commitment and attitude and we are fortunate to have him in our side. He showed great composure last week to kick in difficult conditions and like great tens before him he can certainly kick a drop-goal when needed.”
Ireland under 20 captain Jack O’Donoghue has signed on for a total of three years. The Waterford man will be on a development contract next season before moving to a full contract for two years from 2016.
Current development players Cian Bohane and Shane Buckley have had their contracts extended by a year, with Bohane another penciled in for a senior contract in 2016.
The province have also handed a short-term development contract to hooker Kevin O’Byrne who joined the squad on a training contract at the beginning of this season. O’Byrne’s development deal runs until the end of this campaign.
“It is always rewarding when securing up and coming home-grown talent such as Bohane, Buckley, O’Byrne and O’Donoghue,” added Foley.
“We have guys that are highly sought after in a competitive environment and it’s great for our squad to know that these guys want to contribute to their home province and compete for the jersey. We have only seen glimpses of what these young players can do and we look forward to guiding their development.”
