FOR A PLAYER brought into Munster’s squad part of the way through the season, Pat Howard is doing a fine job.
Currently on a loan deal from Western Province in his native South Africa, the 22-year-old impressed in the recent Champions Cup fixture at home to Clermont, as well as during Friday night’s victory over Leinster at Thomond Park.
Howard is scheduled to return to South Africa in February, but should his form continue, Munster may attempt to secure the outside centre on a longer-term basis.
Injuries to several of their backline options, including Keith Earls and Cian Bohane, meant Munster were on the lookout for a player like Howard from September on. In November, the former South Africa U20 international moved to Ireland to answer the province’s call.
Former Munster centre Jean de Villiers, a fellow Western Province man, played an integral role in organising the deal, while ex-Ireland forwards coach Gert Smal, now director of rugby with Western Province, was also vital.
Howard is thankful for both men’s involvement, although he hasn’t had the opportunity to speak to de Villiers just yet.
“I’d asked for a bit of extra opportunity to play abroad, you know in South Africa we’re on a break at the moment, Being young, 22, and looking for opportunities to play, really improve and gain experience, this came about.
Howard says the presence of CJ Stander, BJ Botha and Gerhard van den Heever has been helpful. Source: James Crombie/INPHO
“Gert Smal at Western Province used to be here and he has a lot of connections in Ireland. He spoke to his connections and luckily there was a gap here. Fortunately, I’ve got a spot here and I’m lucky to start games.”
Click Here: cheap adidas men shoes
Howard has yet to play Super Rugby, but has experience at Vodacom Cup and Currie Cup levels, having previously played international rugby at the 2012 Junior World Championship. Linking up with a renowned outfit like Munster was an easy decision as he looked to make further progress.
