Munster has acquired Billy Burns, a half-back previously with Ulster and Ireland, on a one-year contract as a replacement for Joey Carbery, who is set to join Bordeaux Bègles after the season wraps up. Since transferring from Gloucester in 2018, Burns, aged 29, has participated in 107 matches with Ulster and debuted for Ireland against Wales in 2020, during which he achieved seven caps. Prior to his Ulster tenure, Burns represented Gloucester in 101 games, beginning his career there at the age of 17. Born in Bath, he is eligible to play for Ireland due to his Irish grandfather.
In light of the imminent season, Munster has secured John Ryan, an international tight head prop, and the versatile forward Cian Hurley with contract extensions. Ryan, with 24 international caps to his name, has prolonged his contract for another year following 217 appearances with Munster since his first match in September 2011. The 2022/23 season was particularly bustling for the 35-year-old Ryan as he played for Wasps in England, attained a URC winner’s medal with Munster, and reached the Super Rugby Pacific final with the New Zealand Chiefs.
Simultaneously, Hurley, a 23-year-old player who is skilled both in the second row and back row, has also received a one-year contract extension. Post his recovery from an Achilles/ankle injury, Hurley, who transitioned to the senior squad last summer from the academy, has played in five senior-level games so far.