O'Connell Commits to Munster for Two Years

Ireland and Lions second-row Paul O’Connell has signed a new two-year deal with the IRFU to stay in Munster until at least June 2016; rejecting the lure of a move to France.

The 34-year-old, who made his debut for the club in 2001 has gone on to win 154 caps for the Irish province and now looks set to finish a glittering career at his home.

Furthermore, the deal cements his ambitions to captain Ireland at the Rugby World Cup next year.

O'Connell is the latest Ireland star to spurn a move to the French Top 14 after Sean O'Brien rejected a lucrative offer from Toulon.

Number eight Jamie Heaslip remains the Irish Rugby Football Union's chief target to tie down to a new contract, the 30-year-old having fielded offers from Toulon and Montpellier.

"I am delighted to sign a new IRFU contract and to continue playing with Munster for the next two seasons," said O'Connell.

"Over the years I have been privileged to play in many fantastic Munster sides and as we build for the future I am excited by the prospect of playing my part in achieving success with Munster and Ireland in the coming seasons."

Just six months after O’Connel’s Munster debut, the man-mountain muscled his way into Ireland selection, and has since never looked back with 88 caps currently to his name.

The three-time British and Irish Lion led Munster to the Heineken Cup title in 2008 and the RaboDirect Pro12 in 2009 and 2011.

Philip Browne, the IRFU chief executive, hailed O'Connell as a true great in the country's rugby history.

"Paul is one of Ireland's greatest ever rugby players and his contribution to the success of Irish rugby over the past decade has been immense," he said.

"We are delighted that the Irish captain has committed his future to Munster and Ireland for the next two years."

Munster head coach Rob Penney was also pleased that "one of the best second rows in world rugby" will continue to ply his trade for the club.

"Paul has contributed so much to Munster over the years and remains one of the best second rows in world rugby.

"His experience and leadership will play a key role in the future development of this young Munster squad."