MUNSTER, Irish and Lion fly-half, Ronan O’Gara, has committed to a new Ireland international contract that will see him playing in Ireland for a further two seasons up to 2013.
Following the recent announcement of Donncha O’Callaghan signing a new contract, O’Gara’s decision to stay in Ireland and play with Munster is further good news as the IRFU continue to look to retain players in the provincial teams.
Similar to his Munster colleague O’Callaghan, O’Gara’s career has seen him win almost every honour in the game and became only the third player in Irish Rugby history to reach 100 caps. He has won four triple crowns, one RBS Six Nations Championship and a Grand Slam in 2009 as well as two Heineken Cups with Munster during his career. This has been augmented by his position as the record international points scorer for Ireland and also being selected for three British & Irish Lions tours.
Commenting on the announcement Ronan O’Gara said, “I am extremely happy with my new contract and to be continuing my career in Ireland. I believe there is much more that I want and can achieve with both Ireland and Munster and am looking forward to concentrating on doing that over this season and the next two years.”
Ireland Coach Declan Kidney said, “I am delighted that Ronan has accepted a new two year contract and believe that his contribution to Irish and Munster Rugby will be as great as ever.”
Munster Rugby Chief Executive Garrett Fitzgerald said, “The news that Ronan has extended his contract is extremely pleasing and comes at a very opportune time as we renew our Magners League campaign with the Heineken Cup to follow. Having a player of Ronan’s calibre and experience commit to Munster sends out a positive message and augers well for the future of Munster Rugby.”
