Former England prop Kieran Brookes has completed a move to Irish province Munster, a switch that could pave the way for him to represent Ireland at international level.
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According to RugbyPass, Brookes will leave Top 14 club Perpignan to join Munster after an agreement was reached between the parties.
The 35-year-old only signed a contract extension with Perpignan last year that was due to keep him at the club until 2027. However, the report states that he has ended that deal a season early at his own request.
Brookes arrives with significant experience, having earned 16 caps for England and previously played for Newcastle Falcons, Northampton Saints, Wasps and Toulon.
Despite being born in England, Brookes represented Ireland throughout several age-grade levels, including the U18, U19 and U20 sides.
He was part of England’s squad for the 2015 Rugby World Cup and later featured in the 2016 Six Nations campaign, where he returned from injury and contributed to the Grand Slam-winning side.
His last England appearance came in 2016, meaning he has long since completed the stand-down period required under World Rugby regulations to change international allegiance.
A move to Munster would also satisfy the eligibility criteria needed to represent Andy Farrell’s Ireland.
Originally a hooker before converting to prop, Brookes has previously named Ireland great Keith Wood as his rugby hero.
With little prospect of adding to his England caps, his club career now based outside England, and his 36th birthday approaching in August, Brookes could view Ireland as a realistic route back to Test rugby.
A place in Ireland’s plans for the 2027 Rugby World Cup may offer the experienced front-rower one final opportunity on the international stage.
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