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McClenaghan wins Silver at Pommel Horse World Cup

Team Ireland’s McClenaghan has won silver on the pommel horse final today after scoring 15.033 at the 2023 FIG Apparatus World Cup in Doha.

Teammates Adam Steele, Dominick Cunningham, Eamon Montgomery and Halle Hilton concluded their apparatus qualifiers Thursday with Hilton making first reserve for the beam final tomorrow afternoon.

Speaking from Doha, Gymnastics Ireland’s National Coach, Luke Carson said: “It was a good routine, his best one of the year, so that’s good. At each competition he has demonstrated an improvement from the previous routine, so at this early stage in the competition season that’s excellent to see. Going into Baku we will focus on difficulty and improving execution. It was a very high standard competition, a high standard final today, so it’s excellent to be on the podium…”

Gymnastics Ireland’s Performance and Technical Manager Sally Johnson added: “Well done to Rhys on his silver medal! Great result ahead of the Baku World Cup and well done to Luke for his hard work also”

Commenting on today’s final Gymnastics Ireland’s CEO Ciaran Gallagher said: “Great to see Rhys back on the podium out at the 2023 World Cup in Doha, the 2nd stop on the circuit for our guys! Important points banked for Worlds qualifications again ahead of the last stop on the circuit in Baku and before European Championships in April! Great work from all our gymnasts and of course coaches, judges and athlete support team out on the circuit so far!’

Next up is the last World Cup of this series where the Irish Artistic Gymnastics Team will compete from 9th to 12th March in Baku, Azerbaijan.

For more exciting gymnastics news follow us on Twitter, Facebook for live updates and photos of the competition by searching for @GymnasticsIre #GymasticsIreland #Sportstartshere

Shamrock Rovers Team News and Preview for Derry City

Shamrock Rovers Team News and Preview for Derry City Match.

Stephen Bradley quotes:
 
 
Was Drogheda a similar feeling to Sligo in the dressing room afterwards with another late goal conceded?
“We were all disappointed as a group because it was the second week on the bounce that we conceded very, very late in the game. We were obviously disappointed to concede so late, even though we were down to nine men.”
What did you think of our first half performance?
“I liked the performance. So much of it was really good. Like in Sligo, we created six really good chances throughout the game with a few in the second half. The sending-off changed it but I was happy with it.”
We had a great spell at the start of the second half and again it was Graham Burke with the goal. Was that no more than our play and pressure deserved?
“I think that was coming from the first half, when we played really well. You could see we were grinding them down, getting closer and closer and then second half, we started really bright and made a number of opportunities. Then Graham scored again, which is always nice to see.”
Lee Grace hit the crossbar but you felt that we probably should have killed the game off before the red cards?
“We should have, if you’re being critical – outside of the players being sent off – we definitely need to be more ruthless in the box when we get those opportunities. We’d hit the post, Lee hit the crossbar and Dan had a chance as well. I felt that we were really in control and if we were more ruthless and scored another goal, it’s game over but at 1-0, it’s always game on.”
What was your view of Lee and Dan’s sending offs?
“Lee’s is two yellows. I know he slips for the first one but it’s still a booking and the second is a really silly challenge from Lee and he knows it straight away. It’s very unlike him, a player of his quality and experience but Dan’s, as I said on the night is really poor. He got booked for timewasting and it wasn’t Dan. I think the ref acted too quickly and should have taken advice from his linesman and fourth official. He didn’t and as a result he’s sent off for the second, which is a booking, but we’re disappointed with Dan’s one.”
It’s not ideal to be missing three centre-halves due to suspension on Friday. Are you forced to shuffle things around in defence for what is such a big game?
“We’re obviously down a couple of bodies and we’ve had injuries in that area as well. We’ve had players sent off, that’s on us so no excuses. It is what it is. We’ve given the referee a decision to make the last two weeks and we have to make sure that doesn’t happen again. But we have a strong group, a strong squad so it’s time now for other players to come in and get working, and I’ve no doubt they’ll do that.”
Sean Gannon did really well on his return in Drogheda. Are Sean Hoare, Sean Kavanagh and Ronan Finn ready yet?
“We’re not sure on all three. Even Sean Gannon’s comeback in Drogheda was very early for him. We didn’t want him to play a part in the game but obviously the way things played out we had to get him on. Sean, with his experience did really well. I’m glad he came through that game alright but the others, Ronan is the more serious of the three but we’ll have to check on them this morning and see how they’re getting on.”
We met Derry in the President’s Cup recently but our first home game of the season will be a bigger occasion and do you sense a lot of excitement around it?
“It’s our first home game so we’re looking forward to it. We’ve been away with the works going on in the stadium so we had to wait to have this first competitive game at home since winning the league. It feels like a long time, so we’re all looking forward to going out in front of our home fans and hopefully put on a performance and get the three points. I’m sure it’ll be a sell-out, two good teams, the pitch is always perfect, so it has all the makings to be a really good game.”
To sell over 4,000 season tickets is extraordinary support, especially when you look at the increase in numbers since the first year you became manager?

“It’s incredible. When we first came in the average crowd was really poor and the season tickets weren’t good at all. It was something that we made a conscious decision as a club to try and improve. There are so many factors that go into the club selling over 4,000 season tickets. There are so many people that need to take credit for their part in that. It’s a massive effort from everyone involved in the club and a massive thank you to the fans for that support for the club and the team. We know how important that is, we’ve seen that over the years and we’re going to need every one of them this year if we’re going to be successful. It’s incredible, and we feel that support in the dressing room, as a group, so a massive thank you to each and every one of them.”

New age contact Lenses for Sport

In recent times, it has been observed that people are incorporating contact lenses into their lifestyle and reducing the use of power glasses. Especially after the covid 19 pandemic, the world has changed drastically. The majority of the things have shifted in the online platform, including the working sector and educational sector. It’s also huge for people who wear lenses during sport. 

 

Therefore, people invest themselves more in front of computers and other gadgets. Spending most of the time near electronic gadgets creates tension in people’s eyes, which triggers power glasses or contact lenses. They also spend lots of money blue light glasses which can be very beneficial. 

 

Alongside that, the companies are also investing millions of dollars incorporating the latest and advanced Techniques in contact lenses.

 

Companies like designer optics have launched contact lenses with extra protection from ultraviolet rays. This extra protection from UV rays will enhance the health of your eyes besides protecting them. 

 

In addition to this, companies like Johnson and Johnson Vision are launching contact lenses online with intelligent technology. This technology will help you adjust the brightness of your eyes in the darkness. Besides that, it will also help you focus on certain things you want within a millisecond.

Top Technology in contact lenses that could change the whole world.

With the changing times, technologies are developing and getting more advanced, and scientists are incorporating this latest technology in various fields that can benefit human civilization. They also use this latest and advanced technology in contact lenses for or enhance the experience of lenses for people. 

 

Some of the latest Technology that experts incorporate in contact lenses are listed below-

Technology 1: Telescopic contact lenses

Yes, this is true; the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology has created a prototype lens that will enable the virus to make any object appear 2.8 times larger than reality. Doesn’t it sound like a superpower? We all wished for a superpower like this at one point in time. 

 

If you wear these Telescopic contact lenses, you have to wink with your one eye that will cause the vision to zoom in, much like a camera. 

 

It is possible because the lens contains tiny aluminum Mirrors, which cause the light to be bound specifically. However, the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology is still working on this project, so we hope it will be launched for the masses in upcoming years.

Technology 2: Augmented reality contact lenses

Augmented reality or AR is the reason that has changed the whole perception of the world towards technology. Technological company Innovega is looking forward to incorporating Augmented reality in contact lenses, taking this one step further. This company has also suggested that this device display anything and everything your smartphone can. However, this project is still under observation, and this company is still walking towards making this a successful product for the masses.

 

In a nutshell

This latest and advanced technology in contact lenses can bring a boon among the masses. With the help of these latest and advanced techniques, you will experience a whole new world. Alongside that, it will also reduce different eye problems if you have any and improve the condition of the health of your eyes as well. Thus, it will change the whole outlook of the world towards contact lenses.

 

Joey Carbery starts and RG Snyman on bench for Munster

After been released by the Irish team, Joey Carbery is in Munster starting team to play Scarlets on Friday evening.

 

Munster have made three personnel changes and one positional switch to the side that beat Ospreys two weeks ago.

Hooker Diarmuid Barron starts on his 50th Munster appearance as Academy player Patrick Campbell and Calvin Nash also come into the side.

World Cup winner RG Snyman is among the replacements after battling back to full fitness following a serious knee injury sustained in October 2021. Snyman is in line for his first appearance at Musgrave Park.

Jack Crowley and Keynan Knox also come into the squad as replacements with Academy pair Ethan Coughlan and Mark Donnelly keeping their places on the bench.

Campbell starts at full-back on his 10th appearance of the campaign with Nash returning from injury on the right wing. Daly moves to the left wing having started the Ospreys victory at full-back.

There is continuity in the half-backs and midfield. Scrum-half Paddy Patterson and out-half Joey Carbery start together for the third successive game, as do centre pairing Malakai Fekitoa and Antoine Frisch.

In the front row, Roman Salanoa keeps his place on his return from international duty and packs down with Josh Wycherley and Barron.

Jean Kleyn, who makes his 17th start of the season, and Fineen Wycherley are paired together in the engine room for the third successive game.

Gavin Coombes returns from Ireland camp to start in an unchanged back-row with captain Jack O’Donoghue and John Hodnett.

Munster: Patrick Campbell; Calvin Nash, Antoine Frisch, Malakai Fekitoa, Shane Daly; Joey Carbery, Paddy Patterson; Josh Wycherley, Diarmuid Barron, Roman Salanoa; Jean Kleyn, Fineen Wycherley; Jack O’Donoghue (C), John Hodnett, Gavin Coombes.

Replacements: Niall Scannell, Mark Donnelly, Keynan Knox, RG Snyman, Alex Kendellen, Ethan Coughlan, Jack Crowley, Jack O’Sullivan.

It shouldn’t matter if Katie Taylor fights at Croke Park or not

It’s fair to say that there are many powerful people who want to see Katie Taylor fight at the headquarters of the Gaelic Athletic Association, Croke Park before she retires. The latest influential figure to try and broker a deal to see the undefeated Taylor fight in Dublin’s fabled stadium was none other than Conor McGregor. 

Taylor not scheduled to fight in 2023 yet

The MMA star recently met with Taylor’s promoter, Eddie Hearn, in a bid to find a way to cover the financial shortfall that comes with fighting at Croke Park. For all of McGregor’s enthusiasm towards the matter, when Hearn flew back to London in February, there was still no official plan in place to fight at the iconic stadium and no opponent pencilled in to go toe to toe with Taylor.

As for the way forward over the coming months, perhaps one of the most revealing indicators of what might happen this year can be found in the boxing betting markets which are always up to date with regards to future match-ups. Indeed, if you’re looking to place a boxing bet on the year’s biggest fights, the sad reality is that of late February, you still won’t see Taylor’s name among the latest odds for upcoming bouts in 2023. Right now, the only headline match involving other international stars that have the same status as Taylor involves Anthony Joshua who is priced at odds of 1/12 to beat Jermaine Franklin in April. Granted, that will be an entertaining fight, but what the world really wants to see is Taylor in action whilst they still can.

With no current date scheduled, it is, undoubtedly, a frustrating situation for every boxing fan and in all likelihood, one that will stay unresolved until a solution is found to raise the outstanding expense that stadium security would cost at Croke Park.

Understandably, given what security costs, it is a sizeable barrier in the way and one that isn’t going to be solved by relying on the goodness in people’s hearts. Making fights happen in professional boxing at the highest level, does, after all, come down to feasibility and profits; if the numbers make sense then it goes ahead. At this stage, Hearn’s fear is that if he concedes in his negotiations with the Irish government and GAA and pays the outstanding amount needed to host a fight at Croke Park, then the event could run a loss owing to the rent that the stadium’s organizers currently want.

This isn’t to say that the door is totally shut on Taylor fighting at Croke Park but rather that the cost means that significant ground is going to have to be yielded by all parties in order to get this event over the line. 

Is it time to move on and instead focus on celebrating Taylor’s brilliance?

But in the event of no deal being reached, should it matter that Taylor doesn’t fight at Croke Park? It’s an important question given that the narrative around the saga is getting to a point where it may be, in some way, synonymous with Taylor’s career whilst the reality is that this is a boxer who should be remembered for her unprecedented achievements in the ring. 

Put differently, it would be an injustice for this sideshow to dominate the headlines given that the whole point of Taylor coming back to fight in Ireland is so that the undisputed lightweight champion can retire on home soil. Whilst Taylor is committed to defending her belts in 2023, the Bray Bomber will turn 37 in July which is the average retirement age in professional boxing.

In short, history tells us that the end is not too far away which is why there is precious little time for the politics of the sport to dominate headlines.

In essence, it doesn’t matter where the final homecoming takes place in Ireland, so long as it is a fitting celebration of one of the greatest athletes in the world following a career that inspired millions.

Cazoo Premier League: Night Five preview Exeter

Reigning champion Michael van Gerwen is bidding to extend his lead at the top of the Cazoo Premier League table on Thursday, as the sport’s biggest roadshow heads to the Westpoint Exeter for Night Five.

Van Gerwen won his first night of the 2023 season on a dramatic evening in Dublin last week, surviving seven match darts in his decider against Gerwyn Price to triumph in the Irish capital.
Price defied a 110 average from Van Gerwen en route to claiming the Night Two spoils in Cardiff, and the pair will renew their rivalry in Thursday’s opening quarter-final in the South West.
“I averaged 110 against Gezzy in Cardiff and lost that game, so he knows I owed him one,” quipped Van Gerwen, who is eyeing a record-breaking seventh Premier League crown in May.
“I’m top of the table without even playing my A-game, and that gives me a lot of confidence. [My rivals] know what I am capable of, and you need to believe in your ability.”
Price posted averages of 109 and 108 at last weekend’s Interwetten Baltic Sea Darts Open to continue his strong start to 2023, and Van Gerwen has vowed to raise his game against the Welshman.
“I know there is a lot of work to do and I need to keep performing,” added the Dutchman, who along with Price has featured in multiple nightly finals across the opening four weeks.
“I think from here, there’s a lot more to come. There’s a lot to fight for in the next 12 or 13 weeks, and I’m feeling good.”
The evening’s second quarter-final will see World Champion Michael Smith play 2020 runner-up Nathan Aspinall, which leaves the current top four all situated in the same half of the draw in Exeter.
Night Three champion Smith occupies second spot in the table, and the world number one will be hoping to shake off the wrist injury that plagued him during last weekend’s European Tour opener in Kiel.
Aspinall, meanwhile, succumbed to Jonny Clayton in last week’s quarter-finals, but will be hoping to repeat his Night Two exploits against Smith, which saw him average 105 in a 6-4 semi-final success.
Elsewhere, Night One winner Chris Dobey takes on Dimitri Van den Bergh for a place in the semi-finals, with both players bidding to return to winning ways following early exits in Dublin.
Dobey was beaten by Van Gerwen in the quarter-finals, and the Masters champion is without a win in his debut campaign since dethroning the Dutchman in Belfast’s Night One final.
Van den Bergh is locked on five points with Dobey after making an assured start on his return to the Premier League fold, and the Belgian is hoping to make it five different nightly winners in as many weeks.
“I’m just enjoying the experience and that’s all I can do,” claimed Van den Bergh, a Night Three finalist in Glasgow.
“I already have five points and I can’t take that for granted, especially when you’re playing against the best players in the world.
“I am taking the positives. I could have got more points, but I’m playing well, I’m learning a lot and every week I am getting stronger.
“I know I can win one of these nights and that is what I’m believing in. I feel confident, relaxed and hopefully it will be my night in Exeter.”
Thursday’s other quarter-final showdown features a crucial clash at the bottom of the table, as 2021 champion Jonny Clayton plays 2017 runner-up Peter Wright.
Following a sluggish start to his season, Clayton has recorded successive quarter-final victories to move on to four points, while two-time World Champion Wright remains winless in this year’s competition.
The Scot has succumbed to Dobey, Aspinall, Van den Bergh and Smith in the first four weeks, with quarter-final ties against Price and Van Gerwen to follow on Nights Six and Seven respectively.
The 2023 Cazoo Premier League will be broadcast live on Sky Sports in the UK & Ireland, through the PDC’s worldwide broadcast partners including DAZN, Viaplay and VTM, and on PDCTV for Rest of the World Subscribers.
2023 Cazoo Premier League
Night Five – Thursday March 2
Westpoint Exeter
Quarter-Finals
Michael van Gerwen v Gerwyn Price
Nathan Aspinall v Michael Smith
Dimitri Van den Bergh v Chris Dobey
Jonny Clayton v Peter Wright
Semi-Finals
Van Gerwen/Price v Aspinall/Smith
Van den Bergh/Dobey v Clayton/Wright
Final
v

All matches best of 11 legs

8 Things to Consider When Buying a Race Car Trailer

Race car trailers come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Some are more suited for hauling around a single car, while others can accommodate multiple vehicles. There are also trailers that come equipped with living quarters, making them ideal for long-distance travel. Here are some things to keep in mind when choosing the right race trailer for your needs:

8 Things to Consider When Buying a Race Car Trailer

1. Capacity

The first thing to consider is how many vehicles you need to be able to transport. If you only race one car, then a single-car trailer will suffice. However, if you race multiple cars or participate in different racing series, then you’ll need a multi-car trailer. These trailers typically have room for two or more vehicles, as well as all of the necessary equipment and supplies.

2. Size

The size of the trailer is also an important consideration. Make sure to measure the length and width of your race car (or cars) to ensure that the trailer you choose will be able to accommodate them. You’ll also need to take into account the height of the trailer, as some taller vehicles may not fit under a standard-height trailer.

3. Weight

The weight of the trailer is another important factor to consider. Heavier trailers will be more difficult to tow and may require a larger vehicle to do so. If you’re planning on doing a lot of long-distance travel, then you’ll want to make sure that the trailer you choose is lightweight and easy to tow.

4. Living Quarters

If you’re planning on using your race car trailer for long-distance travel, then you may want to consider one that comes equipped with living quarters. These trailers typically have a kitchen, bathroom, and sleeping area, making them ideal for extended stays on the road.

5. Budget

Of course, your budget is also an important consideration when choosing a race car trailer. There is a wide range of trailers available, from basic models to those that are fully loaded with all the bells and whistles. Determine how much you’re willing to spend on a trailer before beginning your search.

6. Safety

Safety is always a top priority when choosing a race car trailer. Make sure to choose a trailer that is equipped with the necessary safety features, such as brakes, reflective tape, and proper lighting. You’ll also want to make sure that the trailer is properly maintained and inspected before each use.

7. Warranties

When purchasing a race car trailer, be sure to ask about any warranties that may be available. Some manufacturers offer limited warranties on their products, so be sure to inquire about this before making your purchase.

8. Customer Service

Finally, be sure to choose a race car trailer manufacturer that offers excellent customer service. You should be able to easily get in touch with a representative if you have any questions or concerns about your trailer.

What to Have in Your Race Car Trailer?

No matter what type of race car trailer you choose, there are certain items that should always be included. Here is a list of must-have items for your race car trailer:

  • Spare Tire: Be sure to include a spare tire (or two) in your race car trailer. This will come in handy if you have a flat tire while on the road.
  • Jacks: Jacks are essential for changing a flat tire or performing other maintenance on your trailer. Be sure to choose a jack that is appropriate for the size and weight of your trailer.
  • Wheel Chocks: Wheel chocks are necessary for keeping your trailer in place while you’re loading or unloading your car. Be sure to choose chocks that are made from durable materials and are easy to use.
  • Tie-Downs: Tie-downs are essential for securing your car in the trailer. Be sure to choose tie-downs that are appropriate for the size and weight of your car.
  • Fire Extinguisher: A fire extinguisher is a must-have item for any race car trailer. Be sure to choose an extinguisher that is appropriate for the type of fire that is most likely to occur in a trailer (such as an electrical fire).
  • First-Aid Kit: A first-aid kit is always a good idea, especially if you’re traveling long distances. Be sure to include items such as bandages, gauze, and antiseptic in your kit.
  • Tool Kit: A tool kit is essential for performing any maintenance on your trailer. Be sure to choose a kit that includes all the tools you need, such as a screwdriver, wrench, and hammer.

Conclusion

There are a number of things to consider when choosing a race car trailer. Be sure to keep these factors in mind as you begin your search. With a little bit of research, you’re sure to find the perfect trailer for your needs.

Injury update – Finlay Bealham suffers knee injury

Finlay Bealham, twisted his knee against Italy on Saturday and has been ruled out for the rest of the Six Nations.

Bealham had started all games in the Six Nations campaign to date and was one of three Connacht players released from Ireland camp today. Cian Prendergast and Caolin Blade will be available to play Dragons away on Saturday.

27 players will partake in a two day mini-camp later this week which culminates in an Open Training Session against Richie Murphy’s unbeaten Ireland U20s at the Aviva Stadium on Thursday morning.

Ireland captain Johnny Sexton is named in the group for the mini-camp, as is Garry Ringrose who was a late withdrawal from the Italy game with a tight calf and Robbie Henshaw who is returning from injury.

Also included for this week’s camp are Jamison Gibson Park (hamstring) and Tadhg Furlong (calf), neither of whom have featured to date in the 2023 Guinness Six Nations Championship.

All four Provinces are in URC action this weekend with a number of players released from the wider group to access game time.

Ireland Squad Mini Camp – 2023 Guinness Six Nations Championship:

Bundee Aki (Connacht/Galwegians) 44 caps
Ryan Baird (Leinster/Dublin University) 9 caps
Ross Byrne (Leinster/UCD) 17 caps
Craig Casey (Munster/Shannon) 10 caps
Jack Conan (Leinster/Old Belvedere) 36 caps
Tadhg Furlong (Leinster/Clontarf) 63 caps
Caelan Doris (Leinster/St Mary’s College) 26 caps
Jamison Gibson Park (Leinster) 23 caps
Mack Hansen (Connacht/Corinthians) 12 caps
Cian Healy (Leinster/Clontarf) 121 caps
Robbie Henshaw (Leinster/Buccaneers) 61 caps
Iain Henderson (Ulster/Academy) 71 caps
Hugo Keenan (Leinster/UCD) 28 caps
Ronan Kelleher (Leinster/Lansdowne) 20 caps
Dave Kilcoyne (Munster/UL Bohemians) 51 caps
James Lowe (Leinster) 18 caps
Stuart McCloskey (Ulster/Bangor) 12 caps
Conor Murray (Munster/Garryowen) 103 caps
Jimmy O’Brien (Leinster/Naas) 4 caps
Peter O’Mahony (Munster/Cork Constitution) 92 caps
Tom O’Toole (Ulster/Ballynahinch) 7 caps
Andrew Porter (Leinster/UCD) 51 caps
Garry Ringrose (Leinster/UCD) 49 caps
James Ryan (Leinster/UCD) 51 caps
Johnny Sexton (Leinster/St Mary’s College) 111 caps (c)
Dan Sheehan (Leinster/Lansdowne) 15 caps
Josh van der Flier (Leinster/UCD) 48 caps

2023 Guinness Six Nations Fixtures & Results

Wales 10 IRELAND 34
Principality Stadium, Saturday 4th February 2023

IRELAND 32 France 19
Aviva Stadium, Saturday 11th February 2023

Italy 20 IRELAND 34
Stadio Olimpico, Saturday  25th February 2023

Scotland v IRELAND
Sunday 12th March 2023, KO 15:00 (IST)
RTE TV / BBC / RTE Radio / BBC Radio

IRELAND v England
Saturday 18th March 2023, KO 17:00 (IST)
VIRGIN / ITV / RTE Radio / BBC Radio

Leo Cullen Signs New Contract To Stay At Leinster Rugby

The IRFU and Leinster Rugby have confirmed a two-year contract for Leinster Rugby Head Coach Leo Cullen.

Cullen, who won 221 caps for Leinster as a player, as well as 32 caps for Ireland, has been Head Coach since August 2015.

Speaking to leinsterrugby.ie, Leinster Rugby CEO Shane Nolan said, “This is great news for all Leinster Rugby supporters.

“Since 2015, Leo has done a remarkable job as Head Coach of Leinster Rugby and securing his signature was one of my top priorities.

“The consistency and the leadership he displayed as a player, we see again as Head Coach in keeping Leinster Rugby competitive season after season.

“And he does that by surrounding himself with good people and by trusting the player pathway and the from the ground up model that we have developed here in Leinster through our clubs and our schools.

“I am delighted that he has agreed to stay on and I wish him all the very best for the run of games that we have left this season and for the two seasons beyond that.

“It’s an exciting time ahead and I am delighted that Leo is with us to drive the club forward.”

Cullen, who was captain of three Heineken Cup-winning squads, retired from playing at the end of the 2013/14 seasons but not before winning a PRO12 title in his final game at the RDS Arena against Glasgow Warriors.

He was initially appointed as Forwards Coach in the summer of 2014 under Matt O’Connor, before being appointed Head Coach a year later.

Cullen has led Leinster Rugby to a Champions Cup title in 2018 and to four PRO14/URC victories during his tenure. In June 2022, he was named the United Rugby Championship, Coach of the Year for the second time having previously won the award in 2018.

Speaking to leinsterrugby.ie, Cullen said, “It is a great honour for me to be asked to extend my time at Leinster Rugby. I feel very fortunate to able to work with such a brilliant group of people here.

“Many thanks to Shane Nolan, Guy Easterby and the Leinster Professional Game Board along with David Nucifora from the IRFU for their continued support and backing of me through this process. Also to my family and friends, who only show me love and support, thank you for all the sacrifices you make.

“We are entering a really exciting period of the season and we are all focused on delivering our best in front of lots of people who have backed us all through our careers.”

IRFU Performance Director, David Nucifora, commented, “The province is starting a new chapter next season with the loss of some influential voices in their environment, so it was important that Leo agreed to sign on for a further two years.

“He is a driving force behind a lot of the good work that goes on at Leinster and the stability and insight he brings will enable Leinster to transition successfully while also continuing to compete for honours and bring through new talent.”

Jordan Duggan joins Buckley, Dooley and Burke as Connacht props for 22/24

Jordan Duggan has signed a contract and joins Denis Buckley, Peter Dooley and Matthew Burke as Connacht props for 2023/24.

Jordan duggan stats

Duggan has signed a one-year deal and will be aiming to add to the 36 caps he’s made since his debut against Ulster at the Aviva Stadium in 2020.

The 25-year old prop joins fellow looseheads Denis Buckley, Peter Dooley and Matthew Burke in vying for the #1 jersey next season.

Andy Friend, Director of Rugby says:
“Jordan is an extremely powerful young man, and he has everything it takes to become an outstanding loosehead prop. Given his age & the position he plays, he has time on his side to continue to develop his trade and build on the progress he’s made to date. We’re excited at what the future holds for him, and we look forward to seeing him kick on and turn that potential into reality.”

Jordan Duggan says:
“It’s great to sign on with Connacht again for next season. It’ll be a really exciting campaign with the new coaching team and redevelopment starting around the ground so it’ll be great to be a part of that.”

 

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