Ireland captain Paul O'Connell has signed a new two year contract with the IRFU that will keep him at Munster until the summer of 2016. O’Connell who made his Ireland debut back in 2002 will skipper his country in this season's Six Nations next month. The second row has been in superb form this season and has played a major role in helping Munster secure a home Heineken Cup quarter-final against Toulouse.
O'Connell said "I am delighted to sign a new IRFU contract and to continue playing with Munster for the next two seasons,". "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. "
Munster Coach Rob Penney said: "We are delighted that Paul has signed a new IRFU contract which keeps him at Munster up to the end of the 2016 season. "Paul has contributed so much to Munster Rugby 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. "
And IRFU, CEO, Philip Browne, said: "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. "We are delighted that the Irish captain has committed his future to Munster and Ireland for the next two years. "
