Munster close to Bowman deal

Munster are close to signing former Australian international Tom Bowman, writes Mark Woods in today's Evening Echo newspaper.

The 28-year-old 6ft 7in, 18-and-a-half-stone second-row won 15 caps for the Wallabies and played for Viadana in Italy last season, when they reached the Parker Pen Shield final.

Bowman signed for Worcester during the summer, but his contract was terminated on fitness grounds, according to the newly-promoted English club.

However, the player successfully completed a fitness test with Munster last week and was at the pre-season friendly against Newcastle in Limerick on Monday.

It seems that negotiations are at an advanced stage with a deal expected to be reached before the Celtic League registration deadline on Monday.

Munster are looking for a second-row following David Pusey’s shoulder injury which rules him out until Christmas.

The eagerly-awaited Celtic League starts tomorrow week when Munster face the Neath-Swansea Ospreys in Wales.