Munster move New Zealander O'Donovan to senior ranks

Ben O'Donovan of Munster on his way to scoring a try, that was subsequently disallowed, during the United Rugby Championship match between Munster and Ulster at Thomond Park in Limerick. Photo by Seb Daly/Sportsfile

Munster have moved to secure New Zealand scrum-half Ben O’Donovan’s services to the end of 2027-28 by promoting the Irish-qualified number nine to the senior squad for next season.

The former New Zealand Under-20 with Irish parents joined Munster in March on an 18-month academy deal but has made a big impact in his short time, making his debut off the bench as cover for Craig Casey in the Challenge Cup quarter-final loss at Exeter Chiefs. 

Dublin-born and with family roots in west Cork, the 21-year-old became head coach Clayton McMillan’s chosen number 21 for the remainder of the season, coming off the bench in the final five URC fixtures of the campaign.

Brought up in Christchurch, New Zealand, he joined Munster from Canterbury having represented New Zealand at the U20 World Championships in 2024.

O’Donovan becomes the fifth player who will make the leap from academy to the senior squad next season, joining hooker Max Clein, flanker Seán Edogbo, tighthead prop Ronan Foxe and full-back Ben O’Connor.

Lock/flanker Michael Foy will move up from the academy to the senior squad ahead of the 2027/28 season.