Munster pounce to sign Cheslin Kolbe-esque star to replace Simon Zebo while trio re-sign
An exciting addition to the Munster squad with Simon Zebo retiring.
Munster Rugby have reportedly swooped to sign Lyon outside back Thaakir Abrahams ahead of next season, while three stars have re-signed with the Irish province.
Fan favourite Simon Zebo announced that he will be retiring at the end of the current season, bringing an end to his illustrious career.
Meanwhile, Graham Rowntree hasn’t wasted time finding his replacement, with reports in France stating that Abrahams has already signed with the side.
Thaakir Abrahams signs for Munster
According to a report by French publication Le Progres, Abrahams requested an early release from his contract with Top 14 outfit Lyon after just one season at the side in order to link up with Munster.
He joined Lyon from the Sharks at the start of the season but has been unable to secure regular minutes with the Top 14 strugglers, featuring in just 12 of their 32 matches this season.
The report adds that Lyon accepted his request in order to free up a non-JIFF position on the club’s roster.
Thaakir Abrahams overcame ‘visual impairment’ before earning Cheslin Kolbe comparisons
While the 25-year-old’s move to France hasn’t been too successful, Abrahams attracted comparisons to Cheslin Kolbe during his time with the Sharks due to his ability to play wing and full-back.
Blessed with blistering pace and a stunning sidestep, Abrahams has crossed for six tries in his 12 appearances for Lyon this season, five of which came in the Investec Champions Cup with braces against Bristol Bears and Connacht.
Ladies & Gentlemen, we have a try of the SEASON contender 🤩@Vodacom #URC | #LEIvSHA pic.twitter.com/JbtlS6PyOf
— Vodacom United Rugby Championship (URC) (@URCOfficial_RSA) October 8, 2022
He also beat an impressive 24 defenders in his four Investec Champions Cup appearances and made nine clean breaks.
Abrahams is set to be Munster’s fourth signing ahead of next season after confirming the signing of Billy Burns from Ulster, and Tom Farrell and Diarmuid Kilgallen from Connacht.
Archer, Kilcoyne, and Nash re-sign
Meanwhile, Munster have announced that their record appearance holder, Stephen Archer, has signed a six-month extension with the province until the end of January 2025.
The 36-year-old made his debut for the province back in 2009 and has since racked up 281 appearances, winning the URC last season.
Fellow front-rower Dave Kilcoyne has signed a one-year extension with Munster until the end of the 2024/25 season, while Calvin Nash has topped up his current deal that expired at the end of next season, meaning he will remain at Munster until at least 2026.
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