Springbok lock to part ways with Irish province

NEWS: World Cup winning Springbok RG Snyman will not renew his contract with Munster after it expires at the end of the season.

Munster confirmed on Monday that the South African lock will look for a new playing opportunity on completion of his contract at the end of the season.

Another Springbok lock, Jean Kleyn extended his contract with the Irish team for a further two years.

According a statement by Munster, Kleyn, John Hodnett and Liam Coombes have all signed contract extensions with the province.

Named Munster Men’s Player of the Year for 2022/23, Kleyn made his first appearance of the campaign against Leinster at the weekend.

He has played 137 games for Munster since making his debut against Scarlets in 2016.

Last year was a standout campaign as he made 24 starts, more than anyone else in the squad, including 19 starts in-a-row to finish the season as Munster clinched the URC title.

Kleyn, who won the World Cup with South Africa last month, and Hodnett have both signed two-year extensions with Coombes signing a one-year deal.

Hodnett scored three tries in 20 appearances last season, including the match-winning score against Stormers in the URC final.

He came up through the Munster Academy. He has made 45 appearances since his debut in 2020 and also featured for Emerging Ireland last year.

Liam Coombes, who is currently sidelined with a shoulder injury, has signed a new one-year deal.

He is currently sidelined after undergoing surgery on a chest/shoulder injury.