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Stuart Lancaster Appointed Connacht Head Coach in Biggest Signing in Club’s History

— A New Era Dawns as Lancaster Also Takes Over Defence Portfolio

Connacht Rugby and the IRFU have pulled off a seismic coaching coup with the appointment of Stuart Lancaster as Head Coach of Connacht Rugby on a two-year deal. The move, which sees Lancaster replace Pete Wilkins, is being heralded as the biggest signing in Connacht’s history — and a genuine statement of ambition from both the province and Irish Rugby’s governing body.

The former England boss and Leinster architect arrives in Galway with a glowing résumé, having most recently led Racing 92 in France following a transformational seven-year stint with Leinster. There, he played a pivotal role in four consecutive PRO14 titles and four Champions Cup finals, including the 2018 triumph.

He also takes over as the province’s new defence coach, completing a refreshed and highly experienced coaching ticket for the 2025/26 season.

Speaking about the appointment, Lancaster said:

“I’m hugely excited to be joining Connacht Rugby and begin this new chapter of my life in the West of Ireland with my wife Nina. Connacht is a club with a proud identity, a passionate supporter base, and enormous potential both on and off the field, so I’m honoured and humbled to be given the opportunity to lead the Professional Men’s team programme.”

“I’m a firm believer in creating an environment that enables players to thrive and realise their potential, while playing a brand of rugby that inspires the community of which they represent. Ever since my initial conversations with Willie, David and the rest of the selection committee, it’s clear that same belief exists here in Connacht, and that’s why I’m so excited by this opportunity.”

“There’s also the fantastic new facilities here at the new High-Performance Centre and Dexcom Stadium, which will further enable us to realise those goals. I’m looking forward to working closely with all of the staff and players, and I can’t wait to get to know the supporters and wider community over the coming weeks and months.”

Lancaster’s appointment completes Connacht’s coaching ticket for the new campaign, with Rod Seib (attack), Colm Tucker (scrum & contact), and John Muldoon (lineout & maul) also on board, as well as Billy Millard recently named as General Manager of Performance.

Connacht CEO Willie Ruane commented:

“Stuart is one of the most respected coaches in world rugby and we are absolutely thrilled to appoint someone of his calibre. He has a proven track record in developing young talent, building a high-performance environment, and most importantly, delivering success and helping teams realise their ambitions.”

“His coaching philosophy and his vision for how the game should be played, perfectly matches our own values and our own ambition. The coming year promises to be among the most historic in the club’s history, as we mark our 140th anniversary and the completion of the Dexcom Stadium redevelopment.”

IRFU Performance Director David Humphreys added:

“Stuart is a hugely talented coach with a proven track record in developing young talent and in delivering high performing and successful teams. It was clear in the recruitment process of his knowledge and enthusiasm for Irish Rugby and this appointment will be a huge boost to the game in Ireland.”

“With plans accelerating off the pitch around their new facilities it is a significant coup and a real statement of intent for Connacht Rugby.”

Pre-season begins in July, with Lancaster set to be formally introduced to the media and fans next month. For Connacht supporters, hope is rising fast — the players are there, the facilities are ready, and now the province has landed a coach of the highest calibre.

Let’s hope he brings the mindset and structure to truly change the environment around Connacht Rugby. It’s a new chapter — and the most exciting one yet.

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URC Quarter-Final Betting Preview: Leinster to Run Riot, Sharks to Sink Munster

Leinster v Scarlets – Aviva Stadium, 3:00pm

Betting Tip:

Prediction:

Sharks v Munster – Kings Park, 5:30pm (Irish time)

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Author: Joe Naughton
Published: May 2025

Introduction: Changing of the Guard in Irish Rugby

The 2025/26 season is ushering in a major transitional period for Irish provincial rugby. Between high-profile retirements, international signings, and academy reshuffles, the four provinces — Munster, Leinster, Ulster and Connacht — have collectively experienced 43 player departures and welcomed just 10 new arrivals.

This shift highlights a focus on leaner squads, internal player development, and the end of an era for several Irish legends. Here’s a breakdown of the key stats, followed by the full list of confirmed transfers.

Transfer Stats at a Glance:

• Total players in: 10
• Total players out: 43
• Mid-season exits: 10
• Retirements: 7
• International signings: 4
• Fly-halves lost: 4 (Byrne, Burns, Hanrahan, Morgan)
• Most departures: Ulster (17)
• Fewest departures: Connacht (7)

Notable New Signings:

• Rieko Ioane – Leinster
• Angus Bell – Ulster
• Juarno Augustus – Ulster
• Sam Gilbert – Connacht

Notable Retirements:

• Cian Healy – Leinster
• Peter O’Mahony – Munster
• Dave Kilcoyne – Munster
• Stephen Archer – Munster
• Andy Warwick – Ulster
• Marty Moore – Ulster
• Reuben Crothers – Ulster

Munster Transfers – 2025/26

Players In:

• JJ Hanrahan – Fly-half, 32 (from Connacht)
• Dan Kelly – Centre, 24 (from Leicester, ENG)
• Conor Ryan – Lock, 21 (from UCC)
• Andrew Smith – Winger 24 (from Connacht)

Players Out:

• Stephen Archer – Prop, 37 – Retired
• Dave Kilcoyne – Prop, 36 – Retired
• Peter O’Mahony – Back row, 35 – Retired
• Jack Daly – Back row, 26
• Cian Hurley – Back row, 25
• Conor Murray – Scrum-half, 36
• Billy Burns – Fly-half, 31
• Liam Coombes – Winger, 28
• Patrick Campbell – Fullback, 22
• Dian Bleuler – Prop, 25 (returned to Sharks, RSA)
• Eoghan Clarke – Hooker, 27 (to Saracens)
• Scott Buckley – Hooker, 25 (loan to Ealing Trailfinders)
• Bryan Fitzgerald – Centre, 26

Leinster Transfers – 2025/26

Players In:

• Rieko Ioane – Centre, 28 (from Blues, NZL)

Players Out:

• Cian Healy – Prop, 37 – Retired
• Ross Byrne – Fly-half, 30 (to Gloucester)
• Jordie Barrett – Centre, 28 (returned to Hurricanes)
• Rob Russell – Winger, 26
• Liam Turner – Winger, 25
• Rory McGuire – Prop, 22 (to Ulster)
• Ben Brownlee – Centre, 22
• Aitzol King – Winger, 23
• Michael Milne – Prop, 25 (loan to Munster)
• Lee Barron – Hooker, 24 (to Munster)

Ulster Transfers – 2025/26

Players In:

• Sam Crean – Prop, 25 (from Saracens)
• Angus Bell – Prop, 24 (from Waratahs)
• Juarno Augustus – Back row, 27 (from Northampton)
• Rory McGuire – Prop, 22 (from Leinster)

Players Out:

• Andy Warwick – Prop, 34
• Corrie Barrett – Prop, 27
• Alan O’Connor – Lock, 32
• Kieran Treadwell – Lock, 29 (to Harlequins)
• Matty Rea – Back row, 31
• Reuben Crothers – Back row, 23 – Retired
• John Cooney – Scrum-half, 35 (to Brive)
• Michael McDonald – Scrum-half, 26
• Aidan Morgan – Fly-half, 24
• Jack Boal – Prop, 22
• Cameron Doak – Prop, 18
• Zac Solomon – Hooker, 21
• Ben McFarlane – Winger, 20
• Rory Telfer – Fullback, 21
• Marty Moore – Prop, 34 – Retired
• Tadgh McElroy – Hooker, 28 (to Sale)
• Aaron Sexton – Winger, 24

Connacht Transfers – 2025/26

Players In:

• Sam Gilbert – Winger, 26 (from Highlanders)

Players Out:

• Conor Oliver – Back row, 29
• JJ Hanrahan – Fly-half, 32 (to Munster)
• Piers O’Conor – Centre, 29 (to Edinburgh)
• Santiago Cordero – Winger, 31
• Adam McBurney – Hooker, 28 (to Dinamo Bucharest)
• John Porch – Winger, 31 (to Vannes)
• Andrew Smith – Winger, 24 (loan to Munster)

Conclusion

With some of Ireland’s most iconic players hanging up their boots, and key internationals either joining or leaving, the 2025/26 season promises to be one of the most unpredictable in recent memory. Ulster lead the clearout, while Munster and Leinster lose long-time leaders. Will academy graduates step up, or will recruitment spike again in 2026?

Stay tuned to SportsNewsIreland.com for further updates, pre-season previews, and exclusive player interviews.

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There’s a lot changing at Connacht — and not all of it is on the pitch. The brand-new, world-class stand at the Sportsground is a genuine game-changer, a sign that the province is thinking bigger and building for the long term. There’s also a fresh coaching ticket incoming, a new General Manager of Performance behind the scenes, and a wave of exciting young talent rising through the ranks.

On the field, though, 2024/25 was a tough watch at times.

Losing all six interpros — including a gut-wrenching home defeat to Ulster — was hard to swallow, and the season never quite found consistency. Realistically, our only win over a full-strength side came in the Challenge Cup last 16 against Cardiff. The league form was patchy at best, and we struggled to put points on the board against stronger sides.

Connacht averaged 23 points per game, placing around 11th in the URC for scoring. Defensively, we leaked an average of 25 — likely the third worst in the competition. That combination left us on the wrong side of too many scorelines.

Worryingly, the Sportsground was no fortress. Just four home wins from nine (against Sharks, Cardiff, Benetton and Dragons), while the only away victories came against Zebre and Scarlets. Six wins from 18 in the URC doesn’t meet the standard this squad should be aiming for.

But not everything was bleak.

The Challenge Cup run was a real highlight. Five wins and a thrilling, high-scoring battle with Racing at home showed what this team is capable of. It wasn’t just the results — it was the way Connacht played in that competition: ambitious, energised, and entertaining.

There were also individual standouts. Ben Murphy was a revelation. Sean Jansen and Paul Boyle brought consistent power. Peter Dooley anchored the scrum. Shayne Bolton keeps going from strength to strength, while Finn Tracey made a strong impression. And then there’s SHL — a real leader, and arguably the standout player of the season. Coming back from injury inside five weeks was a testament to his character.

Looking ahead, recruitment has been low-key — with only Sam Gilbert arriving so far — and finances remain tight. That’s likely why Rob Seib, originally set for a backs coach role, is now the favourite to take the head coach position too. There were whispers of interest from Dan McFarland and Stuart Lancaster, but nothing materialised. If Seib does step up, a top-class defence coach beside him will be vital.

The bones of a strong season are there. With a new stand, new structures, new energy — and a core of talented, committed players — there’s reason to believe. A top-eight URC finish and a Challenge Cup semi-final run are realistic targets if things click.

There’s work to do, but the future isn’t bleak — it’s just waiting to be built. Roll on 2025/26.

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Considering that winning a rugby game requires the full dedication of a team, emotions run high as players give their all on the field. These emotions get heightened, especially when teams clash with each other, which sometimes leads to intense rivalries that fuel each team’s competitive spirit.

Such rivalry is evident between Ireland and Australia since 1927. This rivalry, noted in history, has brought out unforgettable moments and fierce competition, showcasing grit between both teams. Below, let us explore this rivalry and how each team’s grit is tested on and off the field.

Rivalry Overview between Ireland and Australia

Different forms of football have existed for centuries. However, these forms of football are not the same as the one globally known today. In the early centuries, localized versions of football were found favourable among elite schools in European countries. By the late 19th century, a form of football, which is rugby, became one of the most significant sports in promoting British imperial manliness. From there, rugby rapidly spread from its elitist origins to British colonies and to Scotland and Ireland, especially among the middle and working-class men.

Since then, rugby clubs have been created among countries, and for some, the sport has assumed new levels of innovation. The origins of the rugby rivalry between Ireland and Australia can be traced back to their first match in 1927, which Australia won. Since then, the game embarked on a road towards a certain level of professionalism and commercialism, leading to the full professionalization of the sport in 1995. While Australia has been known to be a dominant force in the rugby union, as evidenced by their winning the 1991 Rugby World Cup, Ireland has also steadily carved its own name in the following years.

In those years, technology was not yet that advanced, so watching them in sports stadiums was the form of entertainment for most Aussies and Irish people. As television and mobile devices were invented and gained popularity, the excitement of rugby enthusiasts can now be brought to wherever they may be.

This technological advancement broadened the horizons for entertainment. It allowed them to discover other venues to support their favorite rugby teams, such as no-deposit and minimum deposit casino platforms, where they place bets for their favorite team or play other games offered while waiting for the match to begin. This integration of technology enhanced their game day experience while increasing the thrill of watching the game as they get to place bets with real money without making a huge financial commitment.

Memorable Test of Grit On and Off the Field

The matches between Ireland and Australia have always been a showcase of their courage and determination.

One memorable match between Ireland and Australia was the quarter-final match during the 1991 World Cup. In this match, both teams performed the most exciting sports performance, specifically Ireland, having nearly pulled off what would have been the greatest upsets. However, Australia still beat Ireland and went on to advance to the semi-finals and then to the finals to claim their first World Cup.

Another memorable match between the two teams is the recent 2016 match in Aviva Stadium, where Ireland won against Australia by 27-24. In this match, there was a fair degree of pressure on the Irish team, as it would determine whether Ireland truly achieved a successful autumn. However, the win was expected as Ireland already took a 17-0 lead.

This win by Ireland was also marked as historic, as it was also the first time Ireland achieved back-to-back wins against Australia since the 1979 Tour.

Off the field, both teams are involved in certain off-field initiatives that reflect their commitment to community engagement. From charity events to initiatives promoting rugby and healthy living, both Irish and Aussie teams recognize their influence beyond the sport.

Final Thoughts on the Rivalry

The rivalry between Ireland and Australia shows a rich history and a shared respect between the two teams.

As both teams continue to evolve and navigate the dynamic landscape of rugby, they remain committed to upholding the values important to the sport: teamwork, excellence, and mutual respect. While both teams are aiming to outdo each other, they also recognize the significance of fostering strong relationships both on and off the field. This commitment to sportsmanship makes their respective fans proud and creates an atmosphere of camaraderie that enriches the experience for everyone involved.

As fans look ahead, one thing is certain: the rivalry between the Irish and Aussie teams remains, but it will be a healthy rivalry fueled by admiration and a shared love for the game.

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Connacht Rugby have confirmed the exciting signing of New Zealand back Sam Gilbert from Super Rugby franchise the Highlanders, ahead of the 2025/26 United Rugby Championship season.

The 26-year-old arrives with a proven pedigree from the southern hemisphere, having made 56 appearances in Super Rugby for the Dunedin-based Highlanders. Across those games, Gilbert racked up over 320 points and crossed for 13 tries, underlining his consistency and attacking threat.

A product of Canterbury’s provincial system, Gilbert began his senior career as an out-half before developing into a dynamic and adaptable backline player. This season, he has primarily featured at full-back for the Highlanders, taking on kicking duties and showcasing his strong boot under pressure. However, his versatility has seen him cover multiple positions including inside centre, wing, and fly-half — making him a valuable asset for any squad.

All Blacks XV and Provincial Impact

Gilbert’s impressive form earned him selection for the All Blacks XV in 2024, where he made two appearances off the bench in their tour of Japan. Though he hasn’t yet received a full All Blacks cap, his involvement at that level highlights his international potential.

Domestically, he has also been a regular presence in New Zealand’s National Provincial Championship (NPC), where he represented Otago 27 times between 2020 and 2024, scoring six tries.

Gilbert Excited for the Move to Galway

Speaking about the move, Sam Gilbert said:

“I’m delighted to be joining Connacht Rugby and take on a new challenge. I’ve loved my time with the Highlanders and will always be grateful for what the club has done for me!

After speaking with Connacht I believe this is the perfect club for me moving forward in my career.

They play a brand of rugby that is entertaining and exactly how I want to play the game, and I know there’s the new HPC and stadium which looks incredibly exciting too.

I can’t wait to make the move, get settled in the province and meet my new teammates and wider staff and supporters in the months ahead.”

A Strategic Signing for Connacht

Gilbert’s signing directly addresses two key areas Connacht have been looking to strengthen — full-back and goal-kicking. With his strong tactical awareness, reliable boot, and experience at the highest level of club rugby, the New Zealander is expected to make a major impact at The Sportsground.

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The 2025 British & Irish Lions squad has been officially announced — and it’s already sparking major talking points across the rugby world. Ireland lead the way with 15 players selected, followed by 13 from England, 8 from Scotland, and just 2 from Wales in a striking shift that underlines changing fortunes among the Home Nations.

Connacht stars Bundee Aki and Mack Hansen headline the Irish contingent, with their inclusions marking a major achievement for the western province — equalling Wales in representation. Many fans will feel for Finlay Bealham, who narrowly missed out despite consistent international form.

In a surprise twist, none of Ireland’s out-halves made the cut, meaning there’s no room for the likes of Jack Crowley or Ross Byrne. With the next Lions tour not until 2029, their chance will have to wait.

Irish Dominance in the Forwards

The Lions forwards feature a dominant Irish presence with Tadhg Beirne, Jack Conan, Tadhg Furlong, Ronan Kelleher, Andrew Porter, James Ryan, Dan Sheehan, and Joe McCarthy all making the cut. Josh van der Flier also earns his place after another standout season.

Firepower in the Backs

The backs offer a blend of experience and flair. Bundee Aki and Garry Ringrose provide midfield solidity, with Hugo Keenan, Jamison Gibson-Park, James Lowe, and Mack Hansen adding firepower out wide.

Nation Breakdown:

• Ireland: 15 players
• England: 13 players
• Scotland: 8 players
• Wales: 2 players

Tomos Williams and Jac Morgan are the only Welshmen included, capping a difficult cycle for Welsh rugby.

Notable Debutants

There are 19 Lions debutants overall, signalling a bold new direction under the tour’s leadership. Maro Itoje will captain the side, bringing authority and experience to a squad brimming with potential.

As anticipation builds for the summer tour, this selection highlights Ireland’s continued rise on the international stage and offers a glimpse into the next generation of Lions stars.

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Friday night lights return to Thomond Park as Munster welcome Ulster in a mouth-watering BKT United Rugby Championship Round 17 clash (7.35pm, live on RTÉ and Premier Sports). With five changes to their starting line-up and home advantage, Graham Rowntree’s men look in prime position to cover the -7 handicap, which is shaping up as one of the weekend’s best rugby bets.

Munster Team News: Five Big Names Return

Munster head coach Graham Rowntree has brought Stephen Archer, Jean Kleyn, Peter O’Mahony, John Hodnett and Diarmuid Kilgallen back into the starting XV after their gritty win over Cardiff. Thaakir Abrahams moves to full-back, forming a dangerous back three alongside Calvin Nash and Kilgallen. This is one of the strongest Munster teams to be selected all season.

The midfield remains settled with Alex Nankivell and Tom Farrell continuing their partnership, while Jack Crowley and Craig Casey form a sharp half-back pairing. Up front, Michael Milne earns his second start alongside experienced campaigners Niall Scannell and Archer.

Kleyn and Tadhg Beirne, who captains the side, anchor the second row, with a robust back-row trio of O’Mahony, Hodnett and Coombes providing firepower at the breakdown.

Ulster Team News: Henderson Returns but Key Questions Remain

Richie Murphy welcomes back Iain Henderson from injury to captain the side and pair up with Cormac Izuchukwu in the second row. Rob Baloucoune returns on the wing, while Michael Lowry starts at full-back after concussion protocols. However, Ulster remain inconsistent on the road and have won just one of their last four away games in the URC.

In the backline, Nathan Doak and Jack Murphy continue at 9 and 10, while the experienced Stuart McCloskey teams up with Jude Postlethwaite in midfield. With Jacob Stockdale and Baloucoune out wide, Ulster’s back three can threaten but could struggle for clean ball against Munster’s aggressive pack.

Betting Tips: Munster -7 Looks a Very Strong Play

Thomond Park is a fortress and Munster have covered the spread in 5 of their last 6 home URC matches. With several key starters returning and momentum building ahead of the playoffs, Munster -7 is a bet with excellent value. Ulster’s form is patchy and they’ve failed to win at Thomond in their last four visits.

Verdict: Back Munster -7 on the handicap at around 10/11 (1.91). Expect a fired-up home performance and a potential double-digit margin.

Match Details

• Fixture: Munster v Ulster
• Competition: BKT United Rugby Championship – Round 17
• Venue: Thomond Park, Limerick
• Date: Friday, 9 May
• Kick-off: 7.35pm
• Live: RTÉ & Premier Sports
• Referee: Adam Jones (WRU)

Munster Team: 15. Thaakir Abrahams 14. Calvin Nash 13. Tom Farrell 12. Alex Nankivell 11. Diarmuid Kilgallen 10. Jack Crowley 9. Craig Casey 1. Michael Milne 2. Niall Scannell 3. Stephen Archer 4. Jean Kleyn 5. Tadhg Beirne (Captain) 6. Peter O’Mahony 7. John Hodnett 8. Gavin Coombes Replacements: 16. Lee Barron 17. Josh Wycherley 18. John Ryan 19. Fineen Wycherley 20. Tom Ahern 21. Alex Kendellen 22. Conor Murray 23. Seán O’Brien Ulster Team: 15. Michael Lowry 14. Rob Baloucoune 13. Jude Postlethwaite 12. Stuart McCloskey 11. Jacob Stockdale 10. Jack Murphy 9. Nathan Doak 1. Andrew Warwick 2. Rob Herring 3. Scott Wilson 4. Iain Henderson (Captain) 5. Cormac Izuchukwu 6. Matty Rea 7. Nick Timoney 8. James McNabney Replacements: 16. Tom Stewart 17. Callum Reid 18. Tom O’Toole 19. Alan O’Connor 20. David McCann 21. Dave Shanahan 22. Stewart Moore 23. Werner Kok

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