CJ Stander signs 3 year deal with Munster and IRFU

CJ Stander has committed his future to Munster and Ireland by signing a new three-year contract.

The 27-year-old, who had been linked with a big-money move to Montpellier, has agreed a deal with the Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU) which expires in June 2021.

Stander joined Munster in 2012 and has made 105 appearances for the province, scoring 32 tries, while he has won 18 caps for Ireland since qualifying under residency rules and represented the British and Irish Lions in New Zealand last summer.

“Following a lot of speculation and unfounded articles in the media, I am delighted to announce that I have signed a new three-year contract with the IRFU through to 2021,” said Stander.

“My intention was always to stay with Munster and Ireland throughout this process having settled well in Limerick with my wife and within the Munster family.

“The coaching setup, ethos and work ethic within both camps is tremendous and I’m very excited at the prospect of playing my part in achieving great things through hard work and determination with both squads.

“My wife and I took a leap of faith and have made a lot of sacrifices to be here but it has all been worthwhile especially given how much of a privilege it is to wear the Munster and Ireland jerseys when given that responsibility.

“Ireland is a special country in which to live and play rugby and I’m fully aware of that.

“The Munster and Ireland fans have been fantastic to us since we arrived and my continued focus will be to do my best for them and both teams when called upon.”

IRFU director of high performance, David Nucifora, added: “CJ has made a huge contribution to both Munster and Irish rugby.

“It has not been an easy or straightforward road but he has shown great determination and commitment in both red and green and continues to perform at a very high level week in and week out.”