Ross inks new two-year deal with Leinster

ANY lingering speculation that Mike Ross was about to jump ship and move back to Munster was firmly knocked on the head yesterday when he signed a new two-year international contract that also keeps him with Leinster up to the end of the 2013 season.

Rumours of a move back south lingered even after Munster swooped to sign Springbok prop BJ Botha from Ulster at the end of the season, but Ross confirmed yesterday he was delighted to stay with Leinster, who helped kick-start his international career.

Ross, who has won seven caps at tight head for Ireland since making his debut against Canada in 2009, has also made 39 appearances for Leinster after his move from English premiership side Harlequins in 2009.