Talented Laulala takes centre stage for Munster next season

Munster have opted for more major surgery on their midfield after signing Cardiff Blues centre Casey Laulala yesterday.

The 29-year-old New Zealand-born centre, twice capped for the All Blacks, looks set to link up with James Downey, who will return to the province next season after a successful four-year stint with Northampton.

Laulala, who has inked a two-year deal with the Reds, beginning next season, made his Blues debut just over two years ago and has since scored 14 tries in 54 appearances.

He previously played Super 14 rugby with Canterbury Crusaders, scoring the winning try in the 2006 final.

Munster coach Tony McGahan said: “We are obviously delighted that we’ve managed to secure the services of a player of (Laulala’s) undoubted calibre for the next two seasons.

“I believe it shows the ambition that Munster Rugby harbours for the years ahead and I think it speaks volumes that a high quality player such as Casey chooses to come to Munster ahead of a very impressive chasing pack.

“We are only too well aware of his rugby capabilities, having come up against him first-hand for the past number of seasons.

“We believe he will not only make a strong contribution on-field, but also act as a mentor to the emerging back division talent we have in our squad.”

Laulala said: “I’ve enjoyed myself very, very much here at the Blues and was fortunate enough to win the Amlin Challenge Cup with them in my first season here.

“My family and me have thoroughly enjoyed our time in Cardiff and I’d like to thank everyone from the bottom of my heart for welcoming me.

“I guess this is a fresh challenge for me, it’s something new and hopefully the Munster welcome will be as warm as the one I experienced here in Cardiff.

“Munster are a very successful team so I’m looking forward to joining them and experiencing life in Ireland.

“However, there is still a lot of rugby to be played this season so I am still fully focused on doing well for the Blues.”

Wales centre Jamie Roberts last night tweeted his disappointment at the departure of his Cardiff centre partner: “Gutted we haven’t resigned @LeCase23 Laulala for next season..winner in every sense of the word..world class player and even better bloke.”

Munster’s swoop for Laulala is likely to end speculation linking Irish wing Tommy Bowe with a move to the southern province, with the Ospreys man now set for a return to his native Ulster.

It also adds further weight to reports that Lifeimi Mafi, who has been strongly linked with French Top 14 outfit Perpignan, will seek an exit from Munster this summer.