MUNSTER CAPTAIN PETER O’Mahony has nipped speculation about his future in the bud and signed a new three-year contract with the province.

O’Mahony’s current deal expires at the end of the season but the 25-year-old has agreed an extension until at least June 2018, the IRFU confirmed this morning.

The news is the latest evidence of the renewed determination to keep Ireland’s star players within the provincial system. Since making his Munster debut in 2010, O’Mahony has established himself as one of the best back-rows in Europe as well as nailing down his place in the international side.

“Peter’s performances for Ireland over the past few seasons have been exceptional,” IRFU Performance Director David Nucifora said.

“The esteem in which he is held by Irish rugby is reflected in the fact that at the age of just 25 he has already captained his country and province.

“Leadership is just one of the many qualities he brings to Munster and Ireland and we are delighted that he has committed to Irish Rugby.”