Update On Potential JJ Hanrahan & Jaco Taute Munster Deals

Rassie Erasmus told reporters following Munster’s win over Leicester that he would hold talks with the IRFU about the possibility of keeping Jaco Taute at the province beyond the New Year.

The South African has been a revelation for the province since signing as injury cover, becoming an instant hit with fans. Two more tries today against the Tigers on Saturday brought his tally to six in nine games.

Erasmus in recent weeks admitted that Taute will probably return home but in light of the Leicester game and the impact he’s had on the growth of player’s around him, the Munster boss reckons he has a good case in keeping him.

Taute’s presence has helped the games of the likes of Rory Scannell, Sam Arnold and Tyler Bleyendall according to Erasmus.

“You never want to get a guy in that blocks younger players and the development of young Irish players but then you look at the role Jaco has played in the development of Rory Scannell, and him playing next to Jaco. A guy like Sam Arnold has picked up some experience with him…

“If there is a chance of Jaco staying on, in a role developing young Irish players to be internationals, [it should be looked at] because he is, no doubt, performing on and off the field in helping the guys around him. He has helped a lot with Tyler Bleyendaal’s confidence and with Andrew Conway and other backline players.

“[Keeping him on] is something I am thinking about, to be honest with you. I have to put the Irish system as the first and foremost thing. It is something I am thinking about and, if it fit into the whole plan. If it does, it would make sense.”

TV3’s Sinead Kissane spoke to Rassie Erasmus today and he has revealed that while a decision is yet to be made, he is hopeful and revealed that Taute very much wants to stay with the southern province.

The South African boss also revealed that Munster have indeed held talks with JJ Hanrahan, but they were informal and no agreement has been reached as of yet. Erasmus also revealed in the interview that Keith Earls is a fitness concern for this weekend’s return fixture with Leicester, with a decision set to be made on Friday.