Munster front row pair Cronin and Sherry sign new contracts

Ireland international prop James Cronin had been linked with a move to London Irish

Munster have been handed a boost with the news that front row pair James Cronin and Mike Sherry have both signed contract extensions with the province.

Loosehead prop Cronin, 25, has agreed a three-year extension which will see him remain until 2019 while hooker Sherry, 27, has extended his deal until 2018.

Cronin had reportedly been attracting interest from London Irish and was thought to be close to agreeing a move.

Both players were products of the Munster Academy.

Ireland international Cronin has made 54 appearances for Munster, scoring five tries, while Sherry has scored eight tries in his 82 outings for the Irish province.

Another Munster prop, South African BJ Botha, is being linked with Exeter Chiefs, while Leinster prop Marty Moore is understood to be close to joining English Premiership side, Wasps.

Munster, who appointed former England assistant coach Andy Farrell in an advisory role this week, are at home to Stade Francais in a European Champions Cup pool game on Saturday.

"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," enthused Munster Head Coach Anthony Foley.

"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."