Former Munster Rugby Star Stunned By IRFU’s Decision To Let Donnacha Ryan Go

Former Munster and Ireland centre James Downey is stunned by the IRFU’s decision to not offer a new centralised contract to Donnacha Ryan.

Ryan looks set to leave Munster at the end of the season after 13 years with the southern province and join Ronan O’Gara’s Racing 92.

Munster have offered the second row a two-year deal but head coach Rassie Erasmus said the province were unable to come close to the figure that the French giants have on the table without help from the IRFU.

The IRFU have reportedly cited Ryan’s age in their decision, despite Jamie Heaslip recently being awarded a three-year deal, despite being just four days younger than the towering lock.

Speaking on the RTÉ Rugby Podcast, Downey believes that both Munster and Ireland will be hurt by the decision.

“It’s very bizarre, I’d love to see Donnacha stay,” he said

“He’s one of those players that just puts everything in, when he’s out on the field he leaves nothing to chance and he leaves everything out there.

“I’d have him in the engine room every time. He’s one of those players you rely on and when he’s not there you miss him.

“To let him go, which is really what it is, it’s a sad end for him because he’s been there so long.

“Obviously he’s going to do great in France.”