Ireland international prop John Ryan is set to leave Munster after signing a contract to join up with the Chiefs ahead of Super Rugby Pacific 2023.
The New Zealand side confirmed the news on Wednesday, with the vastly experienced tighthead having played over 200 games for Munster since his debut.
Ryan only returned to the Irish province this campaign after his Premiership club side Wasps were suspended and went into administration earlier this year.
24 caps for his country
He has won 24 international caps for Ireland and was also a part of the Barbarians team that beat the All Blacks XV at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in 2022.
“It’s a blow to lose Angus [Ta’avao] for the season. He’s an influential leader and a big personality in our environment. Finding a replacement with relative experience has not been easy, and we are delighted to have landed with John,” said Chiefs head coach Clayton McMillan when speaking about Ryan’s arrival.
“We have players who have opposed and played alongside him on the recent All Blacks XV tour and Barbarians fixtures. They strongly advocated his ability and character.
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“His history at Munster and Ireland speaks volumes of his ability and durability, and we look forward to welcoming John and his family into the Chiefs whānau.”
The 34-year-old has played in several Six Nations and was part of Ireland’s Grand Slam success in 2018. He was also part of the 2019 World Cup squad.
“It is exciting for the club to bring someone with as much experience as John Ryan into the Gallagher Chiefs squad. We usually lose the talent to the northern hemisphere, particularly experienced tight forwards, so it is nice to get one back this way,” said Chiefs Rugby Club CEO Simon Graafhuis.
“With the injury to Angus Ta’avao making him unavailable for the 2023 season, it was important to bring some experience into the squad. Tighthead is such an important role and is a core part of setting up a decent platform for the team to attack from. We look forward to welcoming John, and we wish Angus well with his recovery.”
The Munster stalwart, who has been in impressive form since inking a short-term deal at the United Rugby Championship side, is excited by his upcoming move.
Set to leave in February
“It’s a very exciting challenge that myself and my family are very much looking forward to,” said the tighthead.
“The Gallagher Chiefs are a top-class team, and I look forward to adding what I can to their vision and goals for the season ahead.”
Ryan and his family will fly to New Zealand in February ahead of Super Rugby Pacific 2023, so he will hope to continue his solid form with Munster until then.