Munster have announced the signing of Eddie Halvey from London Irish in a move that will take place with immediate effect. The former Irish international back row forward has signed a contract that will effectively see him finishing his career with last year's Heineken Cup finalists. Given the circumstances, London Irish agreed to Halvey's early release from the final season of his contract.
The 32-year-old joined London Irish in July 2000, making 48 appearances and scoring nine tries as he played a key role in the squad that won the Powergen Cup last season. Commenting on the announcement, London Irish Director of Rugby Conor O'Shea admitted: "We are sorry to lose Eddie, he has made a great contribution to the club both on and off the pitch. Given the opportunity that has arisen for Eddie it would be wrong for us to stand in the way of his wishes. We thank him for his service and wish him well in continuing his playing career with Munster."
Munster team manager Jerry Holland added: "Eddie is a quality player. He is well known to Munster supporters and I’m sure they will join with me in welcoming him back into the Munster squad. He is a versatile player whose presence will make the competition for a place in the forwards all the keener."
Filed by Shane Murray
