New Zealand duo among five Munster players to extend contracts
New Zealand half-backs Tyler Bleyendaal and Alby Mathewson are among five players to sign contract extensions at Munster.
Out-half Bleyendaal, who captained the reds against the Southern Kings last Friday, has extended his stay by two seasons. Munster's 2017 Player of the Year will remain with the province until June 2021.
Scrum-half Mathewson, who was signed as short-term injury cover for Conor Murray, has agreed to a further contract extension which will see him stay on until the end of this season. He's scored two tries in 13 appearances.
Tighthead prop Ciaran Parker will move from a development contract to a senior contract for next season. The 23-year-old signed from Sale Sharks in 2017 and has made 11 appearances off the bench.
Two academy players have also put pen to paper on new deals.
Keynan Knox has signed a three-year deal to see him complete his time with the academy before advancing to the senior ranks. The 19-year-old prop, who moved from his native South Africa a year ago, featured for Munster A on five occasions in the Celtic Cup.
Sean O’Connor will graduate into the senior squad on a one-year development contract. The versatile Tipperary forward (22) has made nine appearances between the second- and back-rows.
