Howard To Join Munster

The 22 year-old South African will join the province later in the month subject to passing the normal medical procedures.

Howard made his Western Province Currie Cup debut against Free State Cheetahs in August 2012 and has made 11 appearances in the competition.

The powerful back featured for the South Africa U20s in the 2012 Junior World Championship winning campaign, where he lined out against an Ireland U20s side that included Munster's JJ Hanrahan and Niall Scannell.

Yesterday, he played 60 minutes for the 2014 Currie Cup winning side as they took on Saracens in a challenge game at Allianz Park in London with the home side winning out 46-22.

Due to knee injuries to Keith Earls and Cian Bohane, and the deferred arrival of Tyler Bleyendaal Head Coach Anthony Foley has called on the services of Howard to bolster the options available in midfield.

Commenting on the latest news Foley said, "With players ruled out due to injury and a few other niggles we want to make sure we have a full spread available to us before we enter the next crucial period and Howard can provide that additional support."

Name: Patrick Howard
Position: Centre
Date of birth: 27/03/92
Birthplace: Pietermaritzburg
Height: 187cm
Weight: 101kg