MUNSTER HAVE put the first part of their plan in place for the Rugby World Cup, which takes place in New Zealand in September and October of 2011.

Doug Howlett, the joint second highest try scorer in that competition with 11 tries after record holder, 13-try Jonah Lomu, has signed a new contract with the province until May of 2011 and possibly beyond that.

It was confirmed yesterday the 31-year-old, who will play for Munster for the 50th time in their next match, has agreed terms for the coming season with an option to stay for the 2011/12 season.

“Next season is going to be particularly challenging given it’s a World Cup season,” said Munster coach Tony McGahan. “With our commitment to the international squad we would expect to be introducing more and more of our emerging young players. So it will be very advantageous to have a player of his quality and experience to call on. It’s great news for Munster Rugby.”

McGahan can expect to lose his international players for the months of August, September and October of 2011, which means Munster will campaign for three months in the Magners league without them and will need all the experience he can get.

Howlett, like all of the overseas players that have come to Munster before him, has settled into Irish life extremely well with his family.

“Obviously I’m delighted to be remaining on here with Munster,” he said. “Professionally it’s been a good move for me and on the personal side my family are enjoying our time here.

“With the contract side of things now settled I’m looking forward to what I believe will be a very exciting second part of the season and hoping to play my part in helping Munster achieve success on the field.”