CJ Stander signs contract extension to remain at Munster until 2018

The new deal will see the South African back row remain with the province until at least June 2018.

Tue, 01 Dec, 2015 - 17:24

Munster Rugby and the IRFU confirmed this afternoon that CJ Stander has signed a two-year contract extension.

The new deal will see the South African back row remain with the province until at least June 2018.

Delighted to confirm @CJStander has signed for 2 more years! Full story: https://t.co/DwfqKoFj1g #StanderUpAndFight pic.twitter.com/AXxxt0Dxpe
— Munster Rugby (@Munsterrugby) December 1, 2015

Since joining the province in October 2012 Stander has gone on to make 69 appearances and has scored 22 tries.

He was named the Munster Rugby Player of the Year in April, becoming the first overseas player to be awarded the accolade.

This season the 25-year-old has taken over the captaincy duties and was nominated as European captain for the group stages.

The former South African U20s player made his Munster debut against Scarlets in Cork in November 2012, and went on to make his European debut against Edinburgh in October 2013 in Murrayfield.

"Getting this news at this stage of the seasons is a great boost for the squad,” head coach Anthony Foley said.

“In securing the services of CJ for a further two years we are holding on to a key player within our group, one that gives everything to the jersey each week.

“At such a young age he has shown his leadership qualities on and off the field and we know there is still more to come so we look forward to working with CJ in to the future.”

Stander said he was thrilled to commit himself to the club he regards as “home”.

"I am delighted to be committing my future to Munster Rugby,” he said when the news was announced.

Very happy to announce, I will be committing my future to @Munsterrugby .Looking forward to continuing the journey.🎉 https://t.co/g7nbX6fYDC
— C J Stander (@CJStander) December 1, 2015

“This is very much home for me and it is a huge honour to represent the red jersey every week. I look forward to continuing my journey with the team and supporters.”

The news was warmly welcomed by Munster fans.

Great news for Munster fans. @CJStander has signed a two-year contract extension at the province. Fine player.
— Rugby World (@Rugbyworldmag) December 1, 2015

CJ Stander commits to Munster for another 2 years by signing a new contract! #SUAF
— Three Red Kings (@threeredkings) December 1, 2015

Superb news @Munsterrugby as @CJStander signs new two-year deal https://t.co/lwDPHei7v6 pic.twitter.com/A2VaQNGHw6
— BKT United Rugby Championship (URC) (@URCOfficial) December 1, 2015