Updated 13.30

MUNSTER HAVE SIGNED New Zealand hooker Quentin MacDonald on a three-month contract to ease their injury crisis.

The 25-year-old, who has played Super Rugby for the Crusaders and the Blues, will join at beginning of March provided he obtains a work permit and passes a medical.

The move follows injuries to Mike Sherry (cruciate) and development hooker Niall Scannell (elbow) while Damien Varley is still sidelined in accordance with concussion return-to-play protocols.

MacDonald was expected to join Leinster late last year as cover while Richardt Strauss recovered from heart surgery.

New Zealand media reported that he had signed a contract but complications with his work permit, as well as Strauss’s return way ahead of schedule, put that move on ice.

Coach Rob Penney said: “We’ve addressed the ongoing hooker injuries and looked at the possibility of bringing in someone so it’s great that we can call on Quentin’s services for the immediate future.

“I know him very well having worked with him previously, and I believe he will be a great addition to the squad.”

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