Munster and the Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU) have confirmed that Jean Kleyn has signed a three-year contract extension that will see him remain with the province until June 2022.
The 25-year-old South African joined the PRO14 side just over two years ago and made his Munster debut in September 2016.
Kleyn has scored six tries in 42 appearances for the province.
The powerful second-row earned his first Munster Player of the Year nomination last season after an outstanding campaign that saw him make 25 appearances, including 23 starts.
Kleyn expressed his delight that he will extend his stay at the Irish province.
“I came here two years ago with intent and trying to make my mark at Munster and now I’ve got another three-year opportunity and I’m delighted,” he told Munster’s official website.
“I’m very happy to sign and glad to get it out of the way so early. Just to show my commitment towards Munster as well. I’ve been treated exceptionally well since I’ve arrived at the club, from the players, staff, coaches and the fans. Obviously they’ve received me well and it’s a relationship which I look forward to continuing.
“I’m glad to have signed on. I’m very happy.”
Kleyn revealed that he has ambitions of representing Ireland one day but is fully focused on doing well for Munster at the moment.
“Every rugby player has an aspiration to play at the highest level and the way Ireland are playing now, they are the highest level,” he said.
“So, if I could possibly make the team by merit, I would love to play. It’s an opportunity I would relish but my commitment lies with Munster at the minute and I’ve just signed a three-year deal.
“So, I’m focusing what’s here now and I’ll think about the international stuff later.”
Photo credit: Official Munster Website