Burke relishing Munster return

MUNSTER have secured the services of the internationally- capped Paul Burke for the next two seasons.

The 30-year-old out-half, who was born in London to Irish parents, began his career with Cork Con and Munster before moving back to England.

He has spent the past four seasons with NEC Harlequins, making more than 90 appearances and scoring more than 1,000 points.

Burke, who won 13 caps for Ireland and was standby number 10 for the World Cup in Australia last year, is relishing the return to Ireland.

“I am really delighted to be going back to Munster. They have become one of the truly great sides in Europe. They have great ambition and I hope I can bring the experience I’ve gained to help them achieve their goals.

“There were not many sides that could tempt me away from Harlequins,” he said from his Sunbury-on-Thames home.

“It’s a fantastic challenge and a great opportunity for me. I still have a burning ambition to play for Ireland and playing with a side like Munster will help me in that regard. I’m looking forward to going back. It’s an exciting move and I am thrilled.”

Munster boss Alan Gaffney said that Burke’s experience will be a vital attribute to the squad.

“We are always looking to strengthen our squad and Paul Burke is the type of player we need to compete at the highest level.

“He’s vastly experienced and his inclusion in the squad gives us depth in a crucial position. I am delighted to have him on board.”

Burke left Ireland after helping Munster to their first interprovincial title in 16 years, and after playing with Bristol, he moved to Cardiff for two seasons before then moving to London and Harlequins.

Amongst the highlights of his career with the Londoners was his individual tally of 22 points in the 2001 Tetley’s Bitter Cup final, breaking the record set by Paul Grayson the previous year, and then a further 27 points in the European Shield final victory over Narbonne.

He also kicked the match-winning penalty to defeat Leicester 22-20 in the Powergen Cup quarter-final clash at the Stoop in 2002 and was subsequently named NEC and Supporters’ Player of the Season.