Howlett commits to Munster

ALL BLACK legend Doug Howlett has committed himself to at least another season with Munster.

Howlett inked a deal this week with the province for the 2010/2011 campaign and the contract also includes an option to continue the agreement into 2012.

The 31-year-old who won his 49th competitive Munster cap against Edinburgh last weekend has expressed delight with the deal.

The Heineken Cup winner said: “I’m delighted to be remaining on here with Munster. Professionally it’s been a good move for me and on the personal side my family are enjoying our time here and are very happy to remain for the immediate future.

“With the contract side of things now settled I’m looking forward to what I believe will be a very exciting second part of the season and hoping to play my part in helping Munster achieve success on the field.”

Coach Tony McGahan added: “Doug’s contribution on and off the field has been central to our success.” The boost comes ahead of’s Munster clash with Neath in the British and Irish Cup this afternoon (The Gnoll, 2pm).

MUNSTER: D Riordan; D Barnes, T Gleeson, S Deasy, C O’Boyle; D Cusack, D Williams; D Kilcoyne, S Henry, S Archer; D Foley, I Nagle; S Hassett, P O’Mahony (capt), N Williams.

Replacements: G Slattery, P O’Regan, N Melbourne, E Kelly, C Murray, J Manning, R O’Mahony.