Nankivell commits to Munster until 2029 with two-year extension amid Ireland ambitions

Munster have confirmed that centre Alex Nankivell has signed a two-year contract extension, tying the 29-year-old to the province until at least 2029. The uncapped New Zealander joined from Super Rugby side the Chiefs in the summer of 2023 and has since become one of the squad’s most consistent performers.

Nankivell made 20 appearances last season, picking up three Player of the Match awards along the way. He rounded off the campaign with outings for the Barbarians against South Africa and Wales, underlining his growing profile in the game. In total, he has now made 58 appearances for Munster and claimed both the Bank of Ireland Men’s Player of the Year and the Virgin Media Supporters’ Player of the Year at the 2026 Munster Rugby Awards.

Munster Rugby General Manager Ian Costello paid tribute to the impact Nankivell has had since his arrival. “Alex is a highly valued and respected member of the squad who has made a massive contribution both on and off the pitch since joining Munster,” Costello said. “We are delighted that he has committed his future to the club and look forward to seeing him continue to develop as a player and build on his performances in a Munster jersey.”

Costello also acknowledged Nankivell’s international ambitions, adding: “He has ambitions to play at international level, and we hope to see him realise that potential in the near future.” The centre remains uncapped at Test level, but his consistent form in the URC has kept him firmly in the conversation ahead of Ireland’s upcoming fixtures.