James Cronin signs three year contract extension with Munster

Munster Rugby have confirmed this afternoon that James Cronin and Mike Sherry have signed contract extensions with the province.

In recent days there had been rumours that Cronin would join the recent exodus of players leaving the Irish provinces, but the prop has now signed a three-year deal that will keep him with Munster until until at least June 2019.

The 25-year-old, who is a native of Ballincollig in Cork, completed two years with the Munster academy programme before securing a first senior contract in 2013.

Since then he has made 54 appearances for the province, scoring five tries in the process, and has also earned two Ireland caps.

Munster Rugby confirm that James Cronin and Mike Sherry have signed contract extensions with the province. #IRFU pic.twitter.com/FVGNke1YGT

— sportsfile (@sportsfile) January 14, 2016

Hooker Sherry has signed a two-year contract extension that will see him remain with Munster until at least June 2018.

The 27-year-old has made 82 appearances for the province, scoring 8 tries.

"We are delighted with the latest news, and as a group are hugely lifted with three of our home-grown players committing their futures to the province,” said head coach Anthony Foley.

"James and Mike have shown what they are capable of time and time again and they both have a massive part to play in this squad's progression.”

Munster also confirmed that Greencore Academy player David Johnston will be promoted to the senior squad at the start of the 2016/17 season.