Munster lock Jean Kleyn is more likely to play Test rugby for Ireland than the Springboks.

In an interview with Sky Sports, the former Stormers and Western Province lock said he has settled in Ireland and will be willing to play for the national side, should he get the call-up.

‘When I moved over I knew full well that my career wouldn’t be continued in South Africa.

‘I’ve laid down my roots here and I’m pretty intent on just staying here and if it happens that I do get the call-up to the Irish squad in the future, I’d love to play, but obviously that’s not set in stone or anything like that.’

After playing for the Stormers side in 2014, Kleyn received a call from Rassie Erasmus to join him at Munster.

‘When I got an opportunity like that, you don’t really say no. Working under Rassie and Jacques [Nienaber] again was a massive prospect for me and coming to Munster, which is a world-renowned club. I mean honestly, you don’t say “Munster” in any rugby circle and not get a response.’

The 22-year-old will become eligible for Ireland in September 2019 under the three-year residency rule.

Photo: Andrew Surma/NurPhoto