Some rare good news for Munster fans as James Cronin returns from the brink

Celebrations have been few and far between at Thomond Park this season but Munster supporters can, at least, let out a sigh of relief.

Up-and-coming prop James Cronin was given a 75% chance of moving to the Aviva Premiership on Thursday but, in an extraordinary turnaround, has been nailed down to a new three-year deal just a few hours later. The 25-year-old loosehead, twice capped internationally, has been considered a long-term replacement at tighthead for BJ Botha who, unfortunately, is likely to be out for the remainder of the season after scans confirmed a ruptured ACL. Cronin will now remain at the province until at least 2019 as Munster look to push on from an altogether disappointing campaign. Also signing a new contract is hooker Mike Sherry who has penned a two-year extension at Thomond Park and Munster have also announced that academy player David Johnston is set to join the senior squad from next season having signed a development contract for that season and a full contract for 2017/18. "We are delighted with the latest news, and as a group are hugely lifted with three of our home-grown players committing their futures to the province," head coach Anthony Foley said of the news. "James and Mike have shown what they are capable of time and time again and they both have a massive part to play in this squad's progression. "Both are products of our under-age set up at club and school level respectively and they represent the hard work that is being done at grassroots and academy level each week. "Similarly, David, who is now breaking through has followed the same pathway and we look forward to seeing his growth over the coming years."