O'Connell signs for two more years

Editor

The IRFU and Munster have announced that Ireland captain Paul O'Connell has signed a new two-year contract to stay in Ireland.

The IRFU and Munster have announced that Ireland captain Paul O'Connell has signed a new two-year contract to stay in Ireland.

The 34-year-old's new deal will see him remain at Munster until at least June 2016

“I am delighted to sign a new IRFU contract and to continue playing with Munster for the next two seasons,” said O'Connell.

“Over the years I have been privileged to play in many fantastic Munster sides and as we build for the future I am excited by the prospect of playing my part in achieving success with Munster and Ireland in the coming seasons.”

O'Connell made his senior début for Munster against Edinburgh in August 2001 and has since made 154 appearances for Munster scoring 19 tries.

He made his Ireland début in the 54-10 Six Nations win over Wales in February 2002. O'Connell has won 88 caps for Ireland and was named as captain of the national team during the 2013 November Tests. His last appearance for Ireland was in the 22-20 loss to New Zealand in November.

O'Connell has toured three times with the British and Irish Lions ('05, '09, '13), captaining the tourists on the 2009 tour of South Africa and playing in the first two Tests of the successful 2013 tour of Australia. O'Connell captained Munster to Heineken Cup success in 2008 and to two Pro12 titles (2009 and 2011).

“Paul is one of Ireland's greatest ever rugby players and his contribution to the success of Irish rugby over the past decade has been immense,” said IRFU CEO, Philip Browne.

“We are delighted that the Irish captain has committed his future to Munster and Ireland for the next two years.”

“We are delighted that Paul has signed a new IRFU contract which keeps him at Munster up to the end of the 2016 season,” said Munster coach Rob Penney.

“Paul has contributed so much to Munster over the years and remains one of the best second rows in world rugby. His experience and leadership will play a key role in the future development of this young Munster squad.”