Irish Rugby
O'Gara agrees new two-year deal
ESPNscrum Staff
November 19, 2010
Ireland's Ronan O'Gara sees his late conversion attempt strike the post, Ireland v South Africa, autumn international, Aviva stadium, Dublin, Ireland, November 6, 2010
O'Gara has agreed a new two-year deal with the Irish Rugby Football Union © Getty Images
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Ireland and Munster fly-half Ronan O'Gara has put pen to paper on a new two-year deal with the Irish Rugby Football Union.

The 33-year-old O'Gara, who won his 101st Test cap against Samoa last weekend, was reportedly a target for big spending French clubs but this new contract means he is committed to playing his rugby in Ireland for a further two seasons up to 2013.

O'Gara is one of only three players to reach 100 Test caps for Ireland and he can also boast five Triple Crowns, a Six Nations Championship and a Grand Slam as well as two Heineken Cups with Munster during his glittering career. He is also Ireland's record international points scorer and has toured three times with the British & Irish Lions.

"I am extremely happy with my new contract and to be continuing my career in Ireland," said O'Gara in an IRFU statement. "I believe there is much more that I want and can achieve with both Ireland and Munster and am looking forward to concentrating on doing that over this season and the next two years."

Ireland coach Declan Kidney also welcomed the news that follows a similar deal to secure the playing future of lock Donncha O'Callaghan. "I am delighted that Ronan has accepted a new two year contract and believe that his contribution to Irish and Munster Rugby will be as great as ever," he added.

O'Gara's decision to extend his Munster career was also cheered by his provincial bosses. "The news that Ronan has extended his contract is extremely pleasing and comes at a very opportune time as we renew our Magners League campaign with the Heineken Cup to follow," said Munster Rugby chief executive Garrett Fitzgerald. "Having a player of Ronan's calibre and experience commit to Munster sends out a positive message and augers well for the future of Munster Rugby."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.

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