CJ Stander has ended speculation by committing his future to Munster and Ireland until June 2021 after signing a new three-year deal.

The South African born back-row, who made his international debut in last year's Six Nations, has attracted the interest of big spending clubs in France.

His Munster team mate Simon Zebo is set to leave for Racing 92 in Paris at the end of the season, but the IRFU have been looking to lock down other big names with contract extensions.

Last week Peter O'Mahony at Munster and Leinster's Tadhg Furlong both agreed to stay put and now Stander has joined them.

He made his Ireland debut against Wales in the opening game of the 2016 Six Nations Championships.

He has started all 10 of Ireland's 6 Nations fixtures since making his debut and scored a memorable hat-trick against Italy in the 2017 Championship.

Stander has 18 caps and played a key role in a number of stand-out victories during his time to date in the green jersey, including wins over New Zealand, South Africa, Australia and England.

He was selected for the 2017 British & Irish Lions squad featuring against the Blues, Crusaders, Highlanders, Chiefs, Hurricanes and New Zealand in the decisive third Test.

The 27-year-old made his debut for Munster against the Scarlets in November 2012 and has made 105 appearances since, scoring 32 tries.

Stander belts out Ireland's Call

"My intention was always to stay with Munster and Ireland throughout this process having settled well in Limerick with my wife and within the Munster family," said Stander.

"My wife and I took a leap of faith and have made a lot of sacrifices to be here but it has all been worthwhile especially given how much of a privilege it is to wear the Munster and Ireland jerseys when given that responsibility.

"Ireland is a special country in which to live and play rugby and I'm fully aware of that."