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Ronan O'Gara uses Munster connection to sign up versatile back from former club
By Sam Smith
Ronan O'Gara has struck a deal with former club Munster to sign versatile back Darren Sweetnam. The 27-year-old has requested an early release from his Munster contract and joins the French side as a medical joker for the remainder of the season.
Sweetnam, who can play at fullback or on the wing, has represented Munster 92 times and scored 22 tries since making his debut in 2015.
However first team opportunities were becoming increasingly limited, with Sweetnam making just six starts for the province this season.
He has also won three caps for Ireland and scored a try on debut against Fiji in 2017.
The news follows this morning's announcement that Munster out-half JJ Hanrahan is also bound for France, having agreed a deal to join Clermont Auvergne.
Munster head coach Johann van Graan admitted both moves came as a result of the financial pince caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.
Van Graan said, “Like JJ, we were eager to retain the services of Darren beyond the current campaign, but it hasn’t been feasible.
“He is a hugely talented player who has a chance to play in the premier French competition over the coming months and while we are disappointed to see him leave, we are supportive of the move with the hope of Darren securing future opportunities and success in his career.”
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A potential 5th star for Leinster and redemption adter losing 2 tight finals against La Rochelle against Toulouse and the chance for Jacques Nienaber to have some success without Rassie Erasmus running the show.
Go to commentsThanks Nick, and welcome back 😁 Vulavalu does look better this year, and about time. I suspect Schmidt will knock the hubris out of him. That one handed put down was so embarrassing. Mind you, I had thought Kiss would deal with that. Leaving aside the different games and skills, in NRL he had a very good (but no bullshit) type of coach in Bellamy, something he hasn't had in Union until this year. Bellamy would have roasted him unmercifully for an unprofessional put down.
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