MUNSTER DUO IAN Keatley and Jaco Taute have signed contract extensions, it has been confirmed.
Meanwhile, other players, including Donnacha Ryan and Francis Saili, are set to depart the province at the end of the season.
30-year-old Ireland international Keatley, who recently made his 150th Munster appearance and is one of only two players to score over 1000 points for the province, has signed up for a further two years.
In addition, 26-year-old Springbok Jaco Taute has made 24 appearances and scored eight tries since arriving in September initially on a loan basis from the Stormers and Western Province. The centre has also signed a two-year deal.
With Ian and Jaco we are retaining the services of two quality players,” Director of Rugby Rassie Erasmus said. “Both highly experienced and versatile, they not only add value on field but are also good guys to have in our environment.”
Meanwhile, experienced Ireland international Ryan — Munster’s most capped player of the current squad — will join Racing 92 at the end of the season. The 33-year-old forward has featured 165 times since making his debut against Ospreys in September 2004.
Centre Saili, prop Peter McCabe and lock John Madigan are also set to move clubs at the end of the current campaign, while centre Cian Bohane and lock Mark Chisholm are retiring from professional rugby.
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank each of our departing players for their service to Munster Rugby,” Erasmus added. “Each individual has contributed to the province and played a role in our development and success to date.
In recognising a stellar career for the province I would like to single out Donnacha Ryan for his outstanding service to Munster Rugby for over 13 years. He is a leader on and off the field and has passed on his experience and knowledge to the next generation. We wish Donnacha and all who are leaving all the best for the future.
“Of course there is still rugby to be played with a huge semi-final against Ospreys this weekend, giving our supporters the chance to bid farewell in what is the final game of the season in Thomond Park.”
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