Munster reveal Bok as Stander's replacement
TRANSFER NEWS: Following confirmation of CJ Stander’s upcoming retirement, Munster have opted to bring in another Springbok.
The Pro14 side confirmed that former Bulls player Jason Jenkins has signed a deal with the Irish side.
Following Stander’s upcoming retirement, Jenkins will join the province ahead of the 2021/22 season on a one-year deal.
The South African, who can play in the back or second row, is currently playing with Toyota Verblitz in the Japanese Top League. Before that he represented his home club the Bulls over four years, lining out with current Munster player and fellow Springboks RG Snyman, and is widely recognised for his strong ball-carrying abilities.
A former South African ‘A’ and U20s player, the 25-year-old made his Springboks debut in 2018 against Wales.
On the contract extension front Fineen Wycherley has continued to be a key member of Johann van Graan’s squad after making 15 appearances this season before he suffered an injury against the Scarlets in March.
A product of Bantry Bay RFC, the former Academy Player of the Year’s form also saw him called up to the wider Ireland training squad ahead of the Autumn Nations Cup. The 23-year-old, who has made 56 appearances for the province playing across the second and back row, signs a two-year deal.
Diarmuid Barron graduated to the senior side last summer after spending two years in the Greencore Munster Rugby Academy. During that time, the product of Cashel RFC and Rockwell College made seven appearances while still in the Academy. The 22-year-old has made four appearances this season with the hooker most recently making his first start against Benetton in Thomond Park. Barron has signed a one-year contract extension.
Looking at the Academy players, the trio of Jack Daly, Josh Wycherley and Thomas Ahern all progress from their final year while Jack Crowley will advance after one year in the programme.
Following in his brother’s footsteps, Josh Wycherley is enjoying a breakthrough season after making his senior debut against the Cardiff Blues in October. The loosehead prop has made nine appearances for Munster this season. A product of Bantry Bay RFC, he earned his first European start against Clermont Auvergne in December, playing a starring role in the province’s comeback victory. The 21-year-old featured for Ireland U20 during the Grand Slam-winning Six Nations campaign in 2019 and signs a two-year contract.
Speaking about the signing of Jason Jenkins, Van Graan said: “We’ve had to manage CJ’s recent news and look at what’s needed across our back row next season with Billy who provides cover there also retiring at the end of June.
“I’ve seen Jason’s progression through the South African ranks and while he was highly sought after, I am delighted he will be joining us this summer as I know he will make a great addition to the squad.
“Everyone is aware of the level of players we’re losing from the pack and Jason brings the required level of professionalism, physicality, and athleticism that we can draw on as he competes for his place next season.”
#ICYMI: Munster and the Bulls are in a tug-o’-war over the services of a Springbok lock. https://t.co/Osa1fC8rA6
— rugby365.com (@rugby365com) March 30, 2021
