Hunt a target for Munster

THE negotiating powers of Munster coach Tony McGahan are being put to the test as the Aussie bids to lure his one-time high school rugby union protégé, Karmichael Hunt to Ireland.

Brisbane Broncos utility back Hunt recently rejected a $425,000 (€242,000) contract to stay in Australia’s National Rugby League (NRL) but Munster are facing stiff competition for his signature.

The New Zealand born full-back has also been the subject of lucrative offers from Japan and England’s Rugby Super League, but the opportunity to reunite with McGahan has put Munster in pole position to secure the 22-year-old’s services.

Hunt, who has so far remained tight lipped on his next career move, admitted he would be “stupid” not to consider all the options after the annual State of Origin series between Queensland and New South Wales.

“The thought of going overseas is appealing to me now,” Hunt said. “The life experience overseas is definitely appealing. I’ve been at home all my life. I enjoy new experiences so going abroad would satisfy that hunger.”

Wary of Hunt’s tendency to incur soft-tissue injuries due to muscle tightness, the Broncos wrapped the full-back in cotton wool after he missed the 2006 NRL finals and the entire 2007 season with foot and hamstring injuries.

Hunt hit the headlines in Australia last year when his glamour girlfriend, Emma Harding, dumped him after video footage on a mobile phone seized from three Broncos players – including Hunt – involved in a sexual assault investigation allegedly showed drug use.

Hunt will miss tomorrow’s NRL showdown against the Warriors in Brisbane with an ankle injury.