Rugby:Munster have announced that Doug Howlett has agreed a contract extension that will keep him with the province until the end of the 2012-2013 season. The former All Black joined Munster mid way through the 2007/08 season and has been a resounding success scoring 32 tries since making his debut in a Heineken Cup game against Clermont Auvergne in January 2008.

He is currently sidelined with an Achilles tendon tear but admitted: “I’m obviously delighted to have agreed terms. My family and I are very happy here in Munster; it’s home to us and we’re very much looking forward to remaining here.”

His decision will be welcomed by his team-mates and supporters alike as not alone is he a very popular figure but has been an outstanding contribution since his arrival in Ireland.