Number 8 James Coughlan who won his 100th cap against Saracens at Vicarage Road, hooker Mike Sherry, lock Dave Foley and back row Paddy Butler are the others who have committed their immediate future to Munster while Sean Dougall, in his first season with Munster, has also agreed a two year extension.

And a ninth, 22 year old Simon Zebo, has penned a three year deal that sees him remain until at least the end of season 2015/2016.

The news was announced today at the close of Munster's training session in UL by Rob Penney who said. " I think it gives the organisation real security going forward having that number re-committing to the group. Its a real positive sign that the lads believe in what's happening here and can see a future here for themselves.

"And I think for the Munster supporters and everyone that has an attachment to Munster they can be really rapt that the playing future is being secured for the short to medium and in some cases even a long term. So yes it's wonderful news."