Copeland set to exit Munster
ROBIN COPELAND’S spell with Munster will come to an end in May.
The 31-year-old wanted a fresh start after moving to the province in the summer of 2014.
Back row Copeland arrived at the Reds on the back of a couple of superb seasons with the Scarlets but he never hit the heights with Munster, save for an outstanding display against the Maori All Blacks in November 2016.
The Ireland international has made 62 appearances for the province, scoring 11 tries and played an instrumental role in securing the British and Irish Cup with Munster A last year.
“While it has been great to retain so many of our players this season, we respect Robin’s decision to move on,” said Munster head coach Johann van Graan. “A physical and versatile player, we know he will continue to be successful.”
Munster and the IRFU have confirmed that Dave O’callaghan, Brian Scott and Ciaran Parker have signed contract extensions.
O’callaghan, back from a long-term knee injury, has signed a one-year extension until June 2019.
The 28-year-old, a former academy player of the year, has made 78 appearances for Munster across the back row and second row.
Scott, 24, will advance to a two-year full contract from the start of next season.
The prop who has made 19 appearances, scored his first try on his first start against Zebre last month.
Parker, another prop, has extended his development contract for a further year.
The 22-year-old has made two appearances since joining from Sale Sharks at the start of the season.