CJ Stander has ended speculation regarding his future by signing a new deal with the IRFU to remain with Munster.
The South African-born back row has inked a new three-year contract which will keep him at Thomond Park until 2021.
Stander told the Munster Rugby website:
Following a lot of speculation and unfounded articles in the media, I am delighted to announce that I have signed a new three-year contract with the IRFU through to 2021.
My intention was always to stay with Munster and Ireland throughout this process having settled well in Limerick with my wife and within the Munster family.
The coaching setup, ethos and work ethic within both camps is tremendous and I’m very excited at the prospect of playing my part in achieving great things through hard work and determination with both squads.
My wife and I took a leap of faith and have made a lot of sacrifices to be here but it has all been worthwhile especially given how much of a privilege it is to wear the Munster and Ireland jerseys when given that responsibility. Ireland is a special country in which to live and play rugby and I’m fully aware of that.
The Munster and Ireland fans have been fantastic to us since we arrived and my continued focus will be to do my best for them and both teams when called upon.
The "speculation and unfounded articles" to which Stander refers are reports that French Top 14 side Montpellier tabled an offer worth €840,000 per season for the 27-year-old.
Coupled with the announcement that Peter O'Mahony has also signed a new three-year deal to stay with Munster, it has been a good festive period for the province.
