Its a black day in Munster as MunsterBlogger understands that Doug Howlett is to leave Munster the end of this season.

Heavensgame are reporting the New Zealand Rugby Union appears to be preparing to raid the top European clubs to further bolster their playing ranks in time for the 2011 Super 15 season and crucial home World Cup.

Howlett joined Munster in 2007 after the world cup and has had such a major impact here, its reported that Graham Henry is keen to get him back

Ben Blair, Jerry Collins, Carl Hayman and Byron Kelleher are all said to be targets as well

This sounds like desperation on New Zealands part and Howlett will be sorely missed here in Munster if he goes, Munster fans can hope though as this doesn’t seem to be set in stone yet.

Original Article  http://www.heavensgame.com/magners-league/doug-howlett-and-his-mates-set-for-nz-return