Blow for Munster Rugby as World Cup winner to depart province this summer

MUNSTER Rugby have been dealt a blow with confirmation that experienced forward Jean Kleyn has made the decision to join Gloucester Rugby at the end of the season.

Now in his 10th season at the province, Kleyn has had a huge impact on the club and will go down as one of the province’s most successful overseas signings.

To date, he has made 160 appearances for the province, scoring 15 tries.

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The towering second-row joined the province in 2016 and made his competitive debut for Munster against Scarlets before making his European debut for the club against Leicester Tigers later that season. He made 13 appearances in his debut campaign before a neck injury ruled him out for the remainder of the season.

Kleyn lined out for Munster 25 times in his second season, reflecting his importance to the squad and was nominated by his fellow players for Munster’s Player of the Season.

Kleyn's performances were recognised further when he was called in to train with the Ireland squad ahead of the 2019 Rugby World Cup. He made his Ireland debut against Italy in August 2019 before going on to represent Ireland at the 2019 Rugby World Cup in Japan.

Kleyn made his 100th Munster appearance in a clash against Zebre in January 2022. The following season was one of the second-row's best as he started a remarkable 24 games during the 2022/23 campaign, which included 19 starts in a row, culminating in the URC triumph against the Stormers in Cape Town.

His excellent form was recognised once again at international level when he was called up to the Springboks squad for the 2023 Rugby Championship and 2023 Rugby World Cup.

He played an important role for the Springboks as they won the 2023 Rugby World Cup, featuring in the final win over the All Blacks.

Munster Rugby General Manager Ian Costello said: “Jean is an exceptional character and represents everything that is good about Munster. JK has had an immeasurable impact on Munster Rugby both on and off the pitch since joining the province 10 years ago.

“A complete professional, JK is a hugely popular member of the squad and I know he will be hugely missed by the playing group and all of those who work with him on a daily basis.

“We will wish him and his family all the best and as a group we will be highly motivated to ensure this season is a successful and memorable one for JK and his family.”