CJ Stander releases heartfelt statement after signing lucrative new IRFU contract

It's the Christmas present Munster fans had been hoping for.

CJ Stander has signed a new three-year contract that will keep him at Munster until June 2021, the IRFU announced Thursday morning. The Munster number eight has been ever-present in the Ireland Six Nations team since making his debut in the opening game of the 2016 championship, while he was selected for the 2017 British & Irish Lions squad. https://twitter.com/IrishRugby/status/943805027109523456 The South African-born 27-year-old has won 105 caps for Munster since making his debut back in 2012, scoring 32 tries. The new contract will see him earn a base salary of €450,000 per annum, while Test appearances and additional sponsorships are not included. Along with the contract announcement came a heartfelt statement from the man himself.

"Following a lot of speculation and unfounded articles in the media, I am delighted to announce that I have signed a new three year contract with the IRFU through to 2021.

"My intention was always to stay with Munster and Ireland throughout this process having settled well in Limerick with my wife and within the Munster family. "The coaching setup, ethos and work ethic within both camps is tremendous and I'm very excited at the prospect of playing my part in achieving great things through hard work and determination with both squads. https://twitter.com/IrishRugby/status/943808840730062849

"My wife and I took a leap of faith and have made a lot of sacrifices to be here but it has all been worthwhile especially given how much of a privilege it is to wear the Munster and Ireland jerseys when given that responsibility. Ireland is a special country in which to live and play rugby and I'm fully aware of that.