Duncan Casey 'very excited to give things a rattle in France' after departing Munster

HOOKER Duncan Casey says he is ‘very excited to give things a rattle in France’ after Munster confirmed his switch abroad.

As exclusively revealed by the Limerick Leader earlier this month, Shannon clubman Casey is swapping Munster for French ProD2 club Grenoble.

Former Glenstal Abbey star Casey has played 46 times for Munster and scored five tries since making his debut against Perpignan in the Heineken Cup at Thomond Park in December 2013.

Bidding farewell to his Munster team mates, coaches and supporters on Twitter, 27-year-old Casey said he had ‘wonderful memories, experiences and relationships from his team with the province.

Casey tweeted: “Nothing lasts forever, and my time in Munster has sadly come to an end. Thanks to all our supporters, staff and above all players for the wonderful memories, experiences and relationships I enjoyed over the years. Very excited to give things a rattle in France.”

Nothing lasts forever, and my time in Munster has sadly come to an end. Thanks to all our supporters, staff and above all players for the wonderful memories, experiences and relationships I enjoyed over the years. Very excited to give things a rattle in France.

— Duncan Casey (@BigDunc123) January 27, 2018

The 2014-15 season saw Duncan make 16 starts in 20 appearances and he was deservedly named Munster Rugby Young Player of the Year.

Unfortunately a number of injury set-backs followed and consistent game-time was limited as he was vying for a place in a hugely competitive position.

On his return to fitness, Casey played his part in the knock-out stages of last year’s title-winning British and Irish Cup campaign, and although the academy graduate has not featured for the senior side this season, he has lined out with his club side Shannon and Munster A.

Munster hooker Duncan Casey to depart for 'pastures new' https://t.co/wN3Zuka5m5 pic.twitter.com/RIMcGTR1OH

— LimerickLeader Sport (@LimkLeaderSport) January 22, 2018

Commenting on Casey’s departure, Munster team manager Niall O’Donovan said: “Duncan has been a massive character in our squad and will be sorely missed by this group of players and staff. 

“He has worked hard in coming through the Munster pathway and has overcome a number of challenges in getting himself back to full fitness. 

“We wish Duncan all the best with his next opportunity in France.”