Munster bring in former Wallaby Chisholm to bolster secondrow options

With Paul O'Connell joining Toulon in November, Munster have announced the arrival of former Wallaby lock Mark Chisholm on a two-year contract.

Capped 58 times by Australia, until knee reconstruction saw him miss out on the 2011 World Cup, Chisholm has played the past four seasons with Bayonne in the Top 14 in France.

The 33-year-old appears to have filled the vacancy in the foreign secondrow quota in the Irish provinces that opened when Australian Kane Douglas was bought out of his Leinster contract to join the Queensland Reds.

Exception

However, an exception could be made with Leinster still in the market for a foreign lock.

"We are delighted to have secured the services of Mark," said Munster chief executive Garrett Fitzgerald.

“Known for his athleticism and physicality, he will be a huge addition to the side, with his abilities as a leader also proven. We look forward to the talent and wealth of experience Mark will bring to the province.”

Along with O’Connell’s loss, Donnacha Ryan remains in Ireland camp, so Chisholm – all 6ft 6in and 177kg – will be expected to make an immediate impact for the province.

Anthony Foley’s team begin their pre-season campaign against Bernard Jackman’s Grenoble on Friday week at Thomond Park.

Next chapter

“My family and I have really enjoyed our time in France and we look forward to the next chapter in Ireland,” said Chisholm.

“I’ve been fortunate to play with quality players and teams throughout my career. Being able to be a part of the Munster family would be another highlight.

“I am looking forward to pulling on the red jersey and ripping in to adding to the prestigious history of the club.”

Francis Saili, the twice-capped All Black centre, has already linked up with the Munster squad, also on a two-year deal.