For the first time in 13 years, there is a Paul O'Connell shaped hole in the heart of the Munster second row heading into a new season. 

With O'Connell gone to win another European Cup medal with Toulon, Munster have attempted to fill the gap, unveiling their replacement via the official mechanism (aka, Twitter) early this morning. 

Veteran Australian lock Mark Chisholm has stepped into the breach. Chisholm earned 34 caps for the Wallabies between 2004 and 2011 and has spent the past four years in the Basque heartland of Bayonne. 

Aged 33, he has signed a two year deal.

Munster CEO Garrett Fitzgerald has informed the Munster support what they purchased when they brought in Chisholm.

"Known for his athleticism and physicality he will be a huge addition to the side with his abilities as a leader also proven. We look forward to the talent and wealth of experience Mark will bring to the province."