Kieran Brookes Joins Munster And Michael Ala’alatoa Extends Contract

Munster Rugby are pleased to confirm the signing of 16-cap former England international tighthead prop Kieran Brookes from Top14 side Perpignan on a two-year deal.

We are also pleased to confirm a one-year contract extension for Michael Ala’alatoa, who joined the province in December and played all 18 games over the second half of the season.

Stoke-born Brookes is a former Ireland U20s international who represented England at the 2015 Rugby World Cup and earned 16 international caps.

A durable prop with a wealth of experience, 35-year-old Brookes has played for the likes of Toulon, Leicester Tigers, Northampton Saints and Wasps.

Most recently, he started for Perpignan in their win over Provence last month that preserved their Top14 status.

Kieran Brookes said: “I’m incredibly proud and excited to be joining Munster Rugby. It’s a club with a rich history and a unique identity.

“I’m looking forward to meeting the fans, working alongside the players and coaches, and giving everything I can to contribute to the success of the club. I can’t wait to get started and experience what it means to be part of Munster Rugby.”

Ala’alatoa, 34, joined Munster in December and was an ever-present for the remainder of the season, playing close to 1000 minutes for the province.

A 24-cap Samoa international who has played in two World Cups, Michael has also represented Clermont Auvergne, Leinster and Crusaders.

Head Coach Clayton McMillan said: “It is really pleasing that we have been able to bring in a player of Kieran’s experience in such an attritional position and we are delighted that Michael will be staying on next season.

“Kieran has been playing at the top level for well over a decade and his skillset, particularly in the set-piece, will be invaluable for us over the next two years.

“I have spoken previously about how Mike was a godsend for us this season and his durability in such a key position was crucial for us over the past seven months.

“Along with playing every single game for us since December, he is also a really positive influence off the field and will make a big contribution again next year.”

General Manager Ian Costello said: “Along with their vital on-field contributions, we also feel that Kieran and Mike can play a key role in helping the next crop of young front-row forwards reach their potential.

“We have some very promising young players coming through the system and for them to learn from two vastly-experienced players in Kieran and Mike will prove very beneficial for their development.”