Ireland flanker Will Connors signs for provincial rivals

Leinster and Ireland flanker Will Connors has signed a two-year deal with Connacht ahead of next season.

The 29-year-old is fresh from a start in Leinster’s 34-23 victory over is future team-mates at the Dexcom Stadium.

The match in Galway was just the second appearance since October for the nine-cap Irishman, with the other appearance also coming against Connacht at the beginning of the month, as Leinster ran away 52-17 winners at the Aviva Stadium.

A combination of injuries and competition for places has limited Connors game time this season in Dublin, with the back-row seldom being used in the Investec Champions Cup for Leinster. His game time is likely to increase on the west coast of Ireland, where he will reunite with his former coach at Leinster, Stuart Lancaster.

Connors becomes the second Leinster to sign for Connacht ahead of next season, with Ciaran Frawley also agreeing the move.

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“I’ve had a fantastic nine seasons with Leinster, and am very grateful for all that was achieved in that time,” Connors said.

“I look forward to finishing the season strongly before making the move west in the summer and joining up with a really exciting and talented group.

“After chatting to Stuart and the team, it is clear there’s enormous ambition at Connacht to be successful in the years ahead. It is a proud rugby province, which I experienced first-hand in last Saturday’s game at Dexcom Stadium.

“The atmosphere there was electric on what was clearly a very special night for Connacht Rugby, and I’m eager to contribute to that renowned connection between the fans and the team.”

Lancaster added: “I’ve seen Will’s ability first-hand and I know he’ll be another big asset to Connacht next season.

“His tackling ability and defensive work-rate are well known, but he has real attacking strengths too, which I’m looking forward to developing. With a positive personality, he brings great energy to the group and has real potential as a leader.

“I’m sure he will thrive in the environment we are building here in Connacht. I’m delighted he has chosen to join us at Dexcom Stadium as we continue to evolve and grow the quality and competition in the squad.”