TADHG BEIRNE’S RETURN home to join Munster at the start of next season has this afternoon been confirmed by the southern province and the IRFU.
The 25-year-old second row has signed a two-year contract and will return home from Scarlets after turning down a new contract offer from the Pro12 champions.
As reported by The42 yesterday, Beirne’s decision to leave the Welsh club is down to his desire to play for Ireland and a move to Munster paves the way for international selection.
Scarlets head coach Wayne Pivac had attempted to retain the services of the highly-rated lock but were unable to stand in his way once the IRFU had identified Beirne as a long-term successor to replace Donncha Ryan at Munster.
Beirne was one of the outstanding performers during the Scarlets’ sensational Pro12 title victory last season, as he played a starring role in the final against Munster at the Aviva Stadium.
The former Ireland U20 international, who was released by Leinster 18 months ago, is an excellent capture for Munster and will bolster their second row resources following the departure of Ryan to Racing 92.
With immense upper body strength, Beirne does tireless work at the breakdown and tops the Pro14 turnover stats this season with 13 won, while his versatility and fitness levels have made him one of the most effective operators in the league over the last two terms.
Commenting on Beirne’s departure from the Parc y Scarlets, Pivac said: “We are disappointed to lose such a quality player and quality person from the group but fully understand that Tadhg has aspirations to play for Ireland.
“He’s developed well in the last fourteen months as a player and we’ve seen the benefits of all the hard work he’s put in since joining the Scarlets.
“Tadhg’s fully focussed and committed to continuing his rich vein of form for the remainder of the season.”
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