Munster confirm double deal for Test props

Munster have signed former England tighthead prop Kieran Brookes from USA Perpignan on a two-year deal, as reported by RugbyPass.

The 35-year-old has spent five years in the Top 14, three with Toulon and the past two seasons with Perpignan, since leaving Wasps in 2021, but will add the United Rugby Championship to his resumé.

Brookes’ last outing in Perpignan’s colours was the ‘Access Match’ against Pro D2’s Provence last month, where he helped secure his side’s survival in France’s top division.

Despite having 16 England caps to his name, Brookes technically qualifies for Ireland, having not played Test rugby for a decade.

Alongside the deal for Brookes, Munster also confirmed a one-year contract extension for 24-cap Samoa tighthead Michael Ala’alatoa, who played 18 games for the province last season after joining in December.

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“I’m incredibly proud and excited to be joining Munster Rugby,” Brookes said. “It’s a club with a rich history and a unique identity.

“I’m looking forward to meeting the fans, working alongside the players and coaches, and giving everything I can to contribute to the success of the club. I can’t wait to get started and experience what it means to be part of Munster Rugby.”

Head coach Clayton McMillan added: “It is really pleasing that we have been able to bring in a player of Kieran’s experience in such an attritional position and we are delighted that Michael will be staying on next season.

“Kieran has been playing at the top level for well over a decade and his skillset, particularly in the set-piece, will be invaluable for us over the next two years.

“I have spoken previously about how Mike was a godsend for us this season and his durability in such a key position was crucial for us over the past seven months.

“Along with playing every single game for us since December, he is also a really positive influence off the field and will make a big contribution again next year.”

General manager Ian Costello said: “Along with their vital on-field contributions, we also feel that Kieran and Mike can play a key role in helping the next crop of young front-row forwards reach their potential.

“We have some very promising young players coming through the system and for them to learn from two vastly-experienced players in Kieran and Mike will prove very beneficial for their development.”