Bleyendaal Joins Munster On Three-Year Deal
Munster Rugby and the IRFU have confirmed that Canterbury and Crusaders player Tyler Bleyendaal will join the province on a three-year contract from November 1 this year.
Playing at out-half or inside centre, Tyler Bleyendaal has made 19 Super Rugby appearances for the Crusaders and represented Canterbury in the ITM Cup on 39 occasions.
A former New Zealand Under-20 international, the Christchurch-born Bleyendaal captained the side to victory in the 2010 IRB Junior World Championship in Argentina.
Speaking about his move to Munster, the 23-year-old said: “I am really excited to be heading to a new challenge of playing in a great competition in a new part of the world, for a world renowned team.
“The decision was not an easy one as my time with Canterbury and the Crusaders has been amazing, being involved with quality people every day has made the place special.
“From the research I have done I am sure that Munster will be very similar, a proud team with a great record.”
Commenting on the province’s latest signing, Munster Rugby CEO Garrett Fitzgerald said: “We are very fortunate to recruit the services of a talented young player such as Tyler Bleyendaal.
“We believe Tyler can play an important role in the future of Munster Rugby, and will further strengthen our squad.
“In his roles at 10 and 12 he has been a key decision maker with an intelligent understanding of the game, and will provide us with an exciting option in midfield.”
Bleyendaal, currently involved with the Crusaders, will join the province on completion of his commitments with Canterbury in the ITM Cup.
Name: Tyler Bleyendaal
Position: Out-half/Centre
Height: 1.85m
Weight: 96kg
Date of Birth: 31/05/90
Born: Christchurch, New Zealand