Munster management yesterday announced they have concluded contract negotiations with Irish flanker David Wallace and A internationals Tomás O'Leary, Barry Murphy and Ian Dowling. Prop forward Tony Buckley has also agreed terms. Buckley's Shannon club-mate Stephen Keogh, however, has declined a contract renewal with Munster, opting instead to take up a two-year offer from Michael Cheika in Leinster.
Keogh has played in 10 of Munster's 15 Celtic League games this season - captaining the side against Cardiff Blues at The Arms Park - and has also been involved in four of their 6 European Cup Pool matches.
Despite the offer from Munster, Keogh believes his chances to further his career are best served by moving to Leinster
Munster team manager Jerry Holland said, "While were are very disappointed that Stephen has opted to leave we respect his decision and wish him all the best for the future."
Yesterday marked the launch of the IRB Under 21 World Championship in France, which will now take place every two years. The tournament will feature the 12 best teams in the world and is split into four pools. Tournament hosts France, seeded fourth, face Ireland in their opening match.
The matches will take place over five match days, from June 9th-25th at six venues - Riom, Issoire, Thiers, Cournon d'Auverne, Vichy and Clermont Ferrand.
