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Rugby

09th Jan 2017

Munster looking to Top 14 for an Irish back-up to Conor Murray

Prodigal sons return

Mikey Stafford

From Leinster and Ulster to Munster, via France.

According to French rugby bible Midi Olympique, Munster are on the verge of signing two Irish backs who have been making names for themselves in the Top 14.

Racing 92 scrum-half James Hart left Clontarf for Grenoble in 2013 before joining the Paris club last summer – now it seems the former Leinster man will hook up with other old boys like Andrew Conway and Robin Copeland in Limerick next season.

The 25-year-old will provide competition for Duncan Williams as back-up to Conor Murray – whose availability at the start of next season is sure to be impacted as he recovers from a gruelling Lions Tour – provided he is selected to travel, that is.

https://twitter.com/gavinmortimer7/status/818360355919450112?s=08

Also Thomond Park-bound is Chris Farrell. The 6’5″ centre has made 16 appearances for Grenoble this season, scoring three tries. Blessed with good feet for such a powerful player, the former Ulster man looks like a domestic replacement for the Jaco Taute – whose already extended short-term deal ends this summer.

Already mentioned by Grenoble coach Bernard Jackman as a potential Ireland international, the 23-year-old could add considerable ballast and competition to the Munster midfield.

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