South African lock Jean Kleyn has signed a three-year contract extension with Munster that will see him stay at the Irish province until the end of the 2022 season.

The ex-Stormers player joined Munster in 2016 and becomes eligible to play for Ireland in September 2019.

Kleyn has scored six tries in 42 appearances for the province overall and was shortlisted for their Player of the Year award last season after an outstanding campaign that saw him make 25 appearances, including 23 starts.

‘I came over here two years ago with the intention of making a mark at Munster and now I’ve got another three-year opportunity,’ Kleyn said. ‘I’ve been treated exceptionally well since I’ve arrived at the club and I’m delighted to have signed on to show my commitment to Munster.’

The 25-year-old also talked candidly about his hopes of representing Ireland.

‘Every rugby player has an aspiration to play at the highest level and the way Ireland are playing at the moment, they are the highest level. So if I could possibly make the team on merit, I’d love to play for them. It’s an opportunity I’d relish.’

Photo: www.munsterrugby.ie