Summer Transfers

Great signing for Perpignan there - Arizona Taumalolo. Possibly the best loose-head around at the moment. The rest are a mixed bag.


Gloucester losing Narraway and Strokosh. Hazell getting old as well. Signing Ben Morgan is a pretty handy way to start recruiting though.


I like the idea that Northampton have replaced Downey - solid, dependable, although not exactly a flair player - with Luther Burrell - crap. Jon Clarke is off to Worcester as well and Scott Armstrong's performances suggest that he is no answer at 13. Going to need another centre if they want another run at the heineken cup.

Leinster have signed 25-year-old Irish-qualified Hurricanes prop Michael Bent.

Bent, who holds an Irish passport, can play on both sides of the scum and will join up with the province next season.

The New Zealander has spent the last two seasons playing with Hurricanes in Super Rugby as well as provincially with Taranaki.

Anyone have any background on him?? Was he born in Ire and went over or what

Granny

Another average prop from down under? I'm not sure that is the answer to be honest.

Interesting that Steven Sykes makes it into the planetrugby team of the week this week and seems to be having a good super15 season so far. What happened at Leinster?

a bit of a coup for Edinburgh getting Dimitri Basilaia but makes me think Taleie, who has been huge for them in the big games, has been targeted by someone. Can't see Ed keeping both on their budget.

All but officialy confirmed is Tom Prydie to the Dragons. Decent enough signing IMO, perhaps bring some intelligence to the wing with Brew leaving

Stephen Jones leaving Scarlets and joining Wasps

Edinburgh landing Richie Rees and John Yapp from Cardiff, as well as WP Nel, Greig Tonks and Dimitri Basilaia. Bit of a random selection, but it looks like they are trying to add a bit of depth. Wales running low on props these days, although Yapp is hardly a big loss.

Wasps pick up Ashley Johnson as well, which is interesting. John Hart retires, but with Haskell and Palmer also returning they may actually have a team next season.

Mike Blair on his way out of Edinburgh though. That's a big loss.

Former All Blacks captain Tana Umaga has been added to the shortlist of three to take over from Tony McGahan as Munster boss according to rugby journalist Brendan Fanning.

The retired centre will join Canterbury coach Rob Penney and current Munster forwards coach Anthony Foley on the list to replace McGahan.

Umaga’s lack of coaching experience may be overlooked due to his on-field exploits, similar to Leinster’s appointment of Michael Cheika in 2005 and his current head coach Joe Schmidt.

Fanning also says though Umaga’s tenure as a coach with Toulon ended poorly with him coming out of retirement to work under Phillipe Saint Andre as player/coach he may be preferred as his limited coaching role was working with backs.

This role would fit with Munster’s prospective grooming of forwards coach Foley for the main job when he has gained some more experience.

According to Fanning, Munster will not be prioritising experience as they have already interviewed and turned down former Italy and Japan coach John Kirwan.

Recently retired hooker Jerry Flannery told SportsNewsIreland last week that Foley should be appointed once McGahan stands down.



A strange one for the shortlist imo Foley nailed on for the job already tho surely

Foley & Umaga.  Dream Team.  Dumb and Dumber.

England full-back Delon Armitage is set to leave London Irish to join his brother Steffon at Toulon after signing a two-year deal with the French side.

The 28-year-old, who has made 165 appearances for London Irish since his debut in 2003, will leave the Aviva Premiership club at the end of the season.

"I feel it's the right time for me to move on at this stage in my rugby career," he said.

"Irish has been a huge part of my life and it's been a real honour to be a part of. I would also like to thank the supporters and team mates that I have got to know over the last decade.

"I am looking forward to joining Steffon and Guy at Toulon but my immediate priority is ensuring that London Irish finish the season on a high with two victories."

According to reports in the Welsh press, Wales international wing Alex Cuthbert looks set to leave Cardiff Blues for a big-money move to Paris.

The 22-year-old finisher, who starred for his country during their Six Nations Grand Slam, is reportedly a target of wealthy outfit Racing Metro.

Apparently the Blues tabled Cuthbert a substantial offer, but due to the financial bulk of French clubs, it is likely the youngster will leave Wales.

"The Blues have made Alex an attractive six-figure offer and we are aware that there are offers from other clubs on the table," a Blues spokesman told Wales Online.

If the winger was to leave, he would join fellow internationals Gethin Jenkins, Luke Charteris and Huw Bennett in leaving the country for 2012/13.

made up he's off! makes up for the news re tol

They'd have been a dream team i reckon him and O Leary

Blues in a real "transition" period here. Only trouble is it appears to be from good players to real no-names.

Out: Jenkins, Rees, Laulala, Yapp, Parks, Martyn Williams, Blair, Rhys Thomas.

I think there are more as well. Anyone know the full list? Molitika and Rush are really showing their age and Cuthbert is a potential loss.

In: Campese Ma'afu, Robin Copeland, Jason Tovey

Gloucester sign Jimmy Cowan from NZ. Well overdue a decent scrum-half at the club, but it finishes off a backline that should certainly put bums on seats next season.

Cowan, Burns, Simpson-Daniel, Twelvetrees, Trinder, Sharples, May

Tindall and Fuimaono-Sapolu are both supposed to be out of contract in summer. Not sure if they have been re-signed. Would be daft to keep paying Tindall though because he does nothing. They still need a prop and a lock though (and a coach) to become a genuine play-off team.

In:

Ben Morgan, Huia Edmonds, Sione Kalamafoni, Billy Twelvetrees, Martyn Thomas   

Out:

Luke Narraway, Alasdair Strokosch, Scott Lawson

Re Sykes at Leinster: The relationship started off poorly when he got a bad injury and things got progressively worse. I gather his missus became pregnant just as he moved to Dublin and they wanted the support of family in that scenario, which is understandable. He never settled at all and it would appear that his head was never in the right place from the moment he got off the plane - Leinster management believe the issues he had were as much mental as they were physical which seems fair enough as he's been playing well again for the Sharks since the start of the Super Rugby season. He won't get a great welcome if he comes back with SA in November.

Looks like Brad Thorn is getting along a whole lot better. Physically extraordinary to keep on going.

Quins have signed a big name   http://www.planetrugby.com/story/0,25883,3823_7679107,00.html
Well, alright, the son of a big name. Hell of a league player, so will be interesting to see what the junior version is like.

Mick O'Driscoll hanging up his boots at the end of the season. Seems like he's been around forever.

Not confirmed yet but could signal a coaching change at Irish??

Shane Geraghty to make shock return to London Irish
London Irish will re-sign their former fly-half Shane Geraghty, BBC Berkshire understands.

Geraghty, a product of the Exiles' academy, left the club for Northampton amid some acrimony in 2009.

The 25-year-old spent two seasons at Franklin's Gardens before moving to France to play for Brive.

Geraghty has six caps for England, the last of those coming in November 2009, and his return will be viewed with some surprise by Exiles supporters.

The club and head coach Toby Booth were known to be unhappy with his decision to leave in 2009 and previous suggestions that Geraghty might return were immediately dismissed.

"In London Irish's old clubhouse, in Sunbury, portraits of some of the club's great players hang," explains BBC Radio Berkshire rugby correspondent Graham McKechnie.

"When Shane Geraghty left London Irish in 2009, his picture was symbolically removed from the wall, such was the depth of feeling about his departure."

However, Brian Smith's return to the club as director of rugby after he left the England set-up has made the move possible.

Geraghty is expected to replace Dan Bowden, who is set to join Leicester Tigers in the summer.


Correspondent Analysis
Graham McKechnie
BBC Berkshire Sport "Shane Geraghty coming back underlines that Brian Smith is now absolutely in charge. Such a move would have been unthinkable had Toby Booth been responsible for recruitment. Geraghty's relationship with Booth and Mike Catt had completely broken down after his departure. This will increase speculation about Catt's future at the club. There is no questioning Geraghty's ability as an attacking fly-half but he will have bridges to build with club and supporters."

The "revolution" at irish continues as

London Irish centre Shontayne Hape joins Montpellier
London Irish have agreed to release centre Shontayne Hape, who will join Montpellier next season.

Hape, 31, becomes the latest big-name departure from the Exiles with full-back Delon Armitage also announcing he is joining French side Toulon.

The New Zealand-born dual-code international has 13 caps for England and joined the club in 2011 from Bath.

"We'd like to thank Shontayne for his time with London Irish," said the Exiles' director of rugby Brian Smith.

He added: "We wish him the very best of luck for his future career with Montpellier.

"London Irish has some fantastic young and talented backs who have greatly benefited from training and competing alongside him.

"We look forward to watching those guys in action for the rest of this and next season and to announcing Shontayne's replacement very shortly."

The Exiles, who face Worcester on Saturday, have also confirmed that injured Hape will not feature for Irish again.

Rob Penney was today confirmed as Munster's new Head Coach
The 48 year old  has been Head Coach of Canterbury since 2006, and last season took them to their fourth straight ITM Cup national provincial title. He also has Super Rugby coaching experience with the Crusaders where he was assistant coach in 2005 when they won the Super 12 title and he has maintained his involvement with the Crusaders as Development Squad Coach.
A former Canterbury Academy Manager, Penney will coach the defending World Champion New Zealand Under 20 side during next month’s IRB Junior World Championship in South Africa,and he is expected to arrive in Munster in mid July for the start of a two year contract subject to obtaining a valid work permit.

Anthony Foley will continue on as Forwards Coach while expected change in the rest of the management team will be finalised following consultation with the new Head Coach.

Commenting on the appointment Munster CEO Garrett Fitzgerald said, " We conducted a thorough search to find a replacement for Tony McGahan and were delighted with the calibre of the candidates. Rob Penney's record speaks for itself and we look forward to welcoming him to Munster.”

Penney leaves Canterbury with reluctant best wishes according to Canterbury Rugby Football Union CEO Hamish Riach,  “Rob has been a great servant for Canterbury rugby. We are very sorry to lose a talented coach, but this is a fantastic opportunity for him and we wish him all the best.”

David Wallace today became the fourth Munster player this season to announce his retirement from rugby.
On-going medical issues, as a result of a knee injury sustained in the pre world cup against England, means Wallace has not been able to fully recuperate and regrettably has had to make the decision to retire.
The 35 year old wing-forward won the last of his 203 Munster caps in the Heineken Cup quarter final against Ulster last month. He won the first of those caps in the Interprovincial Championship game against Connacht in August 1997 at the Sportsground in Galway and quickly established himself in the first team.

He made his European debut in September 1998, played in all nine Munster games in the run to the 2000 final where he scored the only try of the game, won a runner-up medal in 2002 and winners medals in 2006 and 2008. He won his 200th cap in the Magners Grand Final last year the last of his 86 Heineken Cup caps in that game against Ulster.

He was also named in the ERC European Dream Team - (Best XV of European club competitions covering 1995 - 2010) along with Ronan O'Gara and Anthony Foley, won a Grand Slam with Ireland in 2009 and as a British & Irish Lion (2001 & 2009) became the first set of three brothers to play for the famous touring side.

Comment: "Although it's disappointing that injury is forcing me to retire now, I take great comfort that I've had an unbelieveably enjoyable career and I feel very lucky to have been involved in an era that has seen Munster and Ireland enjoy so much success".

"Professional rugby has exploded in popularity and changed beyond all recognition in this country since I began and I feel honored to have played witness to it's massive improvement..

I'd like to thank anyone who has helped me and had faith in me during my 15 year professional career including family, teammates, coaches, medics, friends and not least supporters.

I will be looking to step away from rugby and explore a few different business opportunities while also looking forward to being able to spend more time with my wife Aileen and sons Andrew and Harvey."

That's a shame.  Great player, Wallace.

Good decision by Munster, not going with Foley.  Fresh voice, fresh direction badly needed.

Ulster fly-half Ian Humphreys to join London Irish

Should we now be called London "cast-offs"

Ulster fly-half Ian Humphreys has agreed a move to English Premiership side London Irish.

The 30-year-old, who still has a year to run on his Ulster contract, will join the Exiles this summer.

Humphreys has been inconsistent this season and failed to make the Ulster line-up for the Heineken Cup semi-final win over Edinburgh last weekend.

Shane Geraghty's return to London Irish provides stiff competition for Humphreys to secure a starting spot.

Geraghty, a product of the Exiles' academy, left the club for Northampton in 2009.

The 27-year-old spent two seasons at Franklin's Gardens before moving to France to play for Brive.

Humphreys returned to Ulster from the Tigers in 2008 and has scored 617 points in 81 games for the province.




Thats 3 careers to be resurrected for next season now, looks like London Cast-offs will be relying on the yoof to be brought throu

YET MORE REVOLUTION AT IRISH & tbh i'm fairly happy with the recent changes, best for allround I think as 10yrs is a long time? & Irish need an overhaul as the slide continued.

Gary Gold takes on Bath head coach role
Bath have appointed Gary Gold as their new head coach.

London Irish boss Toby Booth, former Exiles prop Neal Hatley and ex-England defence coach Mike Ford join Brad Davis in Bath's new-look coaching set-up.

Bath's new-look backroom
Gary Gold - head coach

Previously coached Springboks, London Irish, Super 15 side Stormers and Newcastle Falcons

Toby Booth - Forwards coach

Spent a decade with London Irish - four years as head coach

Neal Hatley - Forwards coach

Former London Irish prop and youth academy coach

Mike Ford - Defence coach

Former Rugby League player; Ex-defence coach with England and British and Irish Lions. Worked with Gold at Newcastle

Brad Davis - Skills/Attack coach

Former Rugby League player; Defence and skills coach at Bath since 2006

South African Gold, 44, replaces Sir Ian McGeechan, who leaves the Rec after only one season in charge.

"It's a well-known fact that it is the heartbeat of rugby in the UK," Gold told BBC Radio Bristol. "I'm really excited about the adventure."

Last month, McGeechan announced his intention to quit after a disappointing campaign in which Bath finished the season eighth in the table and failed to progress past the group stage of the Heineken Cup.

"I really want to put Bath rugby back on the map," continued Gold.

"They've been an outstanding team for a number of years and by their own admission they've fallen short at the last hurdle.

"Bath can definitely compete with the best in England and could become the best in England.

"I realise the level of responsibility is huge and the height of expectation but it's an incredibly exciting challenge that I'm very much looking forward to it."

Use accessible player and disable flyout menusGold gained Premiership experience during a three-season stint with London Irish before joining Super Rugby franchise the Stormers, and then filling in as head coach at Western Province.

He went on to spend four years as forwards specialist with South Africa under head coach Peter de Villiers.

Gold returned to England in January as Newcastle Falcons director of rugby for the remainder of the season, replacing Alan Tait.

Analysis
Damian Derrick

BBC Radio Bristol Sport For all the undoubted quality that is arriving at Bath it's the balance of the coaching set up that is the real issue.

Gary Gold, Toby Booth and Neil Hatley are all forward-orientated and will no doubt get to work on an under-performing pack.

But Brad Davis and Mike Ford are both defence coaches and given that scoring tries has been one of Bath's biggest problems this season, it's surprising that not one of the four newcomers has that specialisation amongst the backs.

It looks like that responsibility will now fall on the shoulders of Davis.

Although he failed to stop them finishing bottom of the Premiership, he impressed during his short spell at Kingston Park after they whittled down a nine-point deficit at the foot of the table to only one.

Ford follows Gold to the Rec, having worked together at the Falcons, while Booth leaves London Irish after 10 years with the club.

Booth's future at the Madejski Stadium had been in doubt since they re-signed Brian Smith as their director of rugby.

With Hatley also jumping ship to Bath and Mike Catt's decision to join the England set-up, it means the Exiles must now rebuild their coaching team for next term.

Booth said in a statement: "After 10 years London Irish will always be part of me and the decision to leave was not taken lightly especially after the fantastic support shown to me by the fans throughout my time here.

"Moving is going to be a big change but I feel now is the right time for a fresh challenge. I have worked with fantastic players and coaches over the years and I would also like to thank everyone who has supported me."

& then

Wales defence coach Shaun Edwards joins London Irish
Shaun Edwards is to join Premiership club London Irish as defence coach.

Edwards, defence coach for the Wales national team, will replace Toby Booth at the Exiles, but will continue his work with the Six Nations champions.

"He's a great asset for us and I'm personally excited about working with him," London Irish director of rugby Brian Smith told BBC Radio Berkshire.

The Exiles announced on Tuesday that Booth, Justin Bishop and Neal Hatley had left the coaching staff.

Edwards, 45, has not coached at club level since leaving London Wasps in November 2011 and his capture is a great coup for the club, who finished seventh in this season's Premiership.

The former rugby league star will start work after the Wales tour to Australia. Smith also announced he will be stepping back up to a more hands on coaching role to run the team's attack while a new forwards coach is also set to be announced soon.

Analysis
Graham McKechnie
BBC Berkshire Sport "From the moment Brian Smith was unveiled as the returning director of rugby, Toby Booth's future at London Irish was uncertain. The official line, that Booth was happy with the move - even that it was his initiative, was never entirely convincing.
"And over the subsequent weeks, as his coaching staff was disassembled and new players brought in, his departure looked inevitable when the right job came up."



"We've locked horns in the past and I've always found it to be a great challenge," added Smith.

"The hallmarks of his teams are that they are very disciplined and it's an area where we need to improve.

"Defences win titles and we think we are bringing in one of the best coaches of the modern era.

"Shaun brings great intensity to any contest. He did it as a player and he is doing it as a coach.

"The boys know there will be no place to hide at this club next season and I'm sure he will bring the best out in our players."

Meanwhile, Smith has dismissed the suggestion that his arrival at the club was responsible for Booth's departure to Bath.

Smith instead feels that Booth needed a fresh challenge after 10 years at the club, and his departure would have happened had he been there or not.

The Australian returned to the club in March to work above head coach Booth , something that former London Irish player Peter Richards called "a kick in the shin".

"I don't think my return has been the catalyst for Toby's move to Bath," Smith told BBC Radio Berkshire.

"It's been a ball that's been in play for some time.

"This has been cooking since Christmas. Sometimes coaches just need a fresh start. Sometimes coaches need a fresh environment. Our friendship is still intact and I genuinely wish him all the best, but the time is right for him to move on."

Smith added that there had not been a falling out and Booth left with his blessing.

"The conversations I have had with Toby have been honest and heartfelt and never have we raised our voices at each other," he said.

"He is a fantastic coach and I genuinely believe he will go on to coach England in some capacity."

http://www.planetrugby.com/story/0,25883,3551_7744692,00.html

Paul James to Bath. To some extent the Welsh regions can afford to lose backline players, but props as well? While Jenkins and Jones continue into their 30s somebody is going to have to step up to replace them and James seems to be the next best thing.

Not a bad start to Bath's recruitment process. I don't think James is amazing, but he's better than most at Bath. All they need now is 3 back-rows, 2 half-backs and a backline.

What about Rhys Gill

Newcastle have continued their impressive recruitment drive for next season with the signing of Italy lock Carlo del Fava.

Although the Falcons are still waiting to discover which division they will be playing in next season after they finished bottom of the Aviva Premiership, they have followed up the signing of Scott MacLeod by agreeing terms with South Africa-born del Fava.

The 30-year-old has a wealth of experience, having been capped 54 caps by the Azzurri while his former clubs include the Sharks, Rugby Parma, Bourgoin, Ulster, Viadana and Aironi.

And del Fava is looking forward to teaming up with the Falcons and their new director of rugby Dean Richards.

He told the club's official site: "Newcastle Falcons are a club that is on the up and I am really looking forward to the challenge of playing in England.

"There are some exciting times ahead for the club, further strengthened by the appointment of Dean Richards as director of rugby.

"I am delighted to have signed for a club with a bright future and my family and I look forward to making a new home in the north east."

Jason Harris-Wright has been signed by Connacht, Not a bad signing imo bulks up the front row for Connacht

British and Irish Lions scrum-half Mike Blair has signed with relegated French club Brive, according to various reports in the French press.

The Edinburgh and Scotland scrum-half was long believed to be heading to Perpignan but reports suggest that negotiations broke down over Blair's salary, with USAP believed to be focusing on rebuilding their pack after a tough season.

Sources close to Brive have indicated that the 80-cap international is arriving at a very reasonable price considering his wealth of experience as the 1997 Heineken Cup champions look to win promotion back into the Top 14 next season.

31-year-old Blair, who is currently with the Scotland squad in Australia, announced his departure from Edinburgh in April and is understood to have inked a one-year deal.

Brive are also believed to be close to signing Fijian wings Ilekena Bolakoro (Biarritz) and Malakai Bakaniceva (Tarbes)

The Sharks have announced the signing of Springbok World Cup winner Francois Steyn, who rejoins the franchise from Racing-Metro 92.

John Plumtree's outfit confirmed the news after rumours and speculation over the deal, with the Sharks having now finalised all the logistics.

Steyn will join the side officially from July 1 on a three-year contract, with Rugby Commercial Manager, Rudolf Straeuli, happy with the coup.

"I am pleased that we are able to assist SARFU in bringing back international star players such as Steyn and have him back playing rugby at Mr Price Kings Park. I am certain all our supporters will be delighted to see him wearing the black and white jersey once again," he told the Sharks website.

In terms of the team dynamic, Sharks coach Plumtree believes Steyn has much to offer the franchise that has been missing his presence.

"It is great to have him back with us as we did miss him. He was definitely an influential player when he left and he will again be that, so it's fantastic to have him with The Sharks," he said.

Steyn left South Africa in September 2009, for a two-and-a-half year contract with Racing.

On Wednesday Bayonne confirmed the arrival of five new players including Fijian international centre Gabiriele Lovobalavu from Toulon.

Having narrowly escape relegation once again, the Bayonne have launched a new recruitment drive, also bringing in Brive full-back Scott Spedding, South African lock Dewald Senekal and Tongan centre Manu Ahotaeiloa from Agen as well as Racing Metro hooker Grégory Arganèse.

26-year-old Lovobalavu, who has 16 caps for Fiji, has signed a two-year contract after spending five seasons at Toulon.

Former Sharks back Spedding, who is also 26, has singed on for two years after being a stalwart in the Brive attack for the last four seasons.

31-year-old former Lions and Toulon lock Senekal and 26-year-old former Toulouse centre Ahotaeiloa have been brought with new Bayonne coaches Christian Lanta and Christophe Deylaud from Agen.

Arganèse leaves Paris after signing a one-year deal with the Basques.

In other Top14 transfer news, former Sale number eight Sisa Koyamaibole has agreed a deal to join Bordeaux-Begles from relegated Lyon.

The powerful Fiji international, who has been capped 51 times, made 14 appearances at Lyon since moving from the Sharks in 2011.

Koyamaibole has had previously spells at Toulon, Petrarca and Taranaki - but he will now stay in the Top 14 after signing an initial 12-month deal, with the option of a further season.

not many escape the regulars, ttt

The news that Munster have managed to bring one of the brightest young talents away from South Africa looks to be a particularly good piece of business.
CJ Stander has captained the Blue Bulls at U19 and U21 level as well as South Africa at U20 and this season, after making his Super Rugby debut off the bench against the Sharks in the opening round at Loftus Versfeld has played in all subseqent Super Rugby matches for the Bulls this year. He had  two other bench starts before making the starting XV for the home game against the (Queensland) Reds and he has remained a featue in the run-on side since, alongside Bull captain Pierre Spies who is due to win his 50th Springbok cap at the weekend aagainst England.
Bulls coach, Frans Ludeke, wished Stander well in his decision; "Quality players like CJ, who have also shown tremendous leadership abilities, don't come around very often and so it was not a surprise to hear about his overseas offer."

The player himself expressed his delight at the move saying. " I felt honoured and privileged when Munster approached me and indicated that I am viewed as a player with the potential to represent Munster.

"I spent countless hours on the Club's website to learn more about Munster's history, traditions and community involvement. It goes without saying that I am aware that Munster is a giant in World Rugby.

"I know though that I will join an institution that is much bigger than just being a rugby Club and look forward to be a contributing member of the team and to earn the respect of my future team mates and Munster supporters if selected."

Stander's next engagement for the Bulls is against the Cheetahs on June 30th and he will be involved with the Blue Bulls in the Currie Cup and join Munster immediately after the conclusion of that tournament.




Cant say i have seen much of him but all the reports seem very positive!

New Ulster coach Mark Anscombe is bringing fellow New Zealander, and former Munster No 8, Nick Williams back to Ireland.

The muscular back-row joined Munster ahead of the 2008/09 campaign, but had a disappointing spell with the province, during which he failed to establish himself, despite scoring a hat-trick of tries against the Dragons in '09.

However, he then became one of the top players in Italy when parading his skills with the now defunct Aironi franchise.

The 28-year-old is a direct replacement for the popular South African Pedrie Wannenburg, who has moved to French side Castres.

Williams, a Junior All Black player, made 37 appearances for the Bulls in Super Rugby during a four-year spell there and also played for North Harbour under Anscombe in the Air New Zealand Cup.

Ulster's director of rugby David Humphreys believes Williams will prove to be a big hit at Ravenhill.

"Nick Williams was a standout player during his time at Aironi and he will add a great deal to our squad," said Humphreys yesterday.

"His addition means there will be real depth right across the back-row and this is vital, given that Stephen Ferris is under an IRFU Player Management Programme.

"Mark (Anscombe) brought him out of club rugby in New Zealand and believes he can make a huge impact here at Ulster," added Humphreys.

The beaten Heineken Cup finalists have also signed former Academy graduate and Ireland

U-20 scrum-half Michael Heaney from Doncaster on a four-month short-term loan.

And they have also brought in 22-year-old Australian-born, but Irish-qualified, back-row forward Sean Doyle, who played for Southern Districts, a Sydney club side.

Maike Tindall back to Gloucester on one year deal


Have been surprised Tom Voyce has nt been able to find a new club in any country tho - surely he stil has a bit to offer a 2nd tier european team

Former England winger Tom Voyce has admitted he could be forced to quit the game after failing to find a new club for next season.

Despite being just 31, Voyce - who scored three tries in nine appearances for his country - has struggled to secure a new contract since being released by Gloucester.

A number of potential deals in France have failed to come to fruition, while there has been little interest in the talented winger in this country - with Voyce currently doing pre-season training on his own.

And with a number of clubs opting to put their faith in youth out wide, Voyce concedes he could now hang up his boots for good.

"I was hoping to find a club in the UK or France but it has been difficult and because of the current state of the market place my agent has been struggling.," Voyce told Sky Sports.

"I'm now in limbo really as to whether I carry on or call it a day and find work away from rugby - and with pre-season starting it is looking more unlikely that I will find a club.

"I'm now in limbo really as to whether I carry on or call it a day and find work away from rugby - and with pre-season starting it is looking more unlikely that I will find a club."
Tom Voyce
Quotes of the week
"It is frustrating as I have been lucky with injuries so my body is still in good shape and I feel I have got a good few years left in me yet.

Suspicion

"I just get a suspicion that the thought process of some clubs is that as I've turned 31 then I am past my best. Teams aren't looking for experience on the wing, they are looking instead at young lads coming in.

"It is about the budgets sides have as they can only afford so much in terms of experienced players and they don't want to use that on the wing.

"France is still a possibility but there has been a cut on foreign players."

It is in across the Channel that Voyce has come the closest to securing a contract for next season - however luck has just not been on his side.

"There was lots of initial interest from France but I have just been unlucky with how it has panned out," admitted the former Bath and Wasps winger.

"Brive were really keen but then they got relegated; Pau, who were expecting to go up, were interested but then they failed to win promotion; Grenoble had an option to choose either an international 15 or a hooker as they couldn't get both and they decided to sign a hooker; Toulon were sniffing around for a bit then decided against it; and the latest side was Bordeaux but that was two/three weeks ago and we've heard nothing since.

"It has been frustrating. There hasn't really been any interest in the UK. There has only really been two teams - Gloucester and London Irish - where a lot of players have left and that has been largely down to budgets."

Voyce, who has scored 66 tries in 217 Premiership appearances, had looked set to stay at Gloucester - however the departure of coach Bryan Redpath and a reduction in budget paved the way for his exit.

"Luckily I don't have a family to support as well otherwise I would be worried as to how to cover all the bills and mortgage."
Tom Voyce
Quotes of the week
Voyce, who joined the Cherry and Whites from Wasps in 2009, said: "I knew back in January that Gloucester wanted to keep me but they said it would be at the end of the signing season because of budgets. However with everything around the Redpath situation I prepared myself not to be staying.

"I then knew at the start of June that I would have to start looking beyond rugby.

Gut-wrenching

"I've got my CV together and I will just see what happened. There's not a deadline for me to decide but if someone offers me a job then it something I would have to seriously look at. I think I've at least two years left in me at the top level but I have to be pragmatic.

"Luckily I don't have a family to support as well otherwise I would be worried as to how to cover all the bills and mortgage."

Voyce, who has been working with the RPA over life away from the game, admits quitting while he still believing he has a few years left would be a tough decision to make.

"I'm not a bitter person, I just don't like regret," he said. "If I was to finish rugby now it would be frustrating as I feel my talent and skills haven't diminished.

"The best platitudes you can receive come off your peers and they said they can't believe I haven't been snapped up by another club.

"It is a bitter-sweet situation as it is not my decision. You look at someone like David Flatman who has had their career snatched away by injury and it is gut-wrenching but it is also hard to take that it is over knowing you're fully fit."

Voyce definitely has something to offer. Not sure whether his wage demands have anything to do with it but the guy has the know how and rugby brain to do well at a second tier European side.

Henson to London Welsh confirmed

Rumours are that Voyce could be following him.

Leinster have announced the double signing of South African second row Quinn Roux and New Zealand-born utility back Andrew Goodman on one-year deals.
Ireland and Lions back Luke Fitzgerald, who has played 103 times for the province and was a part of all three Heineken Cup successes, has also signed a new one-year deal.
Stormers lock Roux, 21, who is 6'6" and weighs in at 120kg, is expected to link up with Leinster upon the completion of his Super 15 commitments in time for the start of the PRO12 campaign.
Twenty-nine-year-old Goodman joins on a one-year deal with the option of a further year.
Commenting on the deals, Leinster coach Joe Schmidt said: "We are pleased to secure the signing of Quinn and Andrew who will bolster our second row and out-half/midfield options respectively.
"Quinn is a physically imposing forward with a burgeoning reputation in South Africa and he will add further competitiveness to the second row alongside Leo Cullen, Damian Browne, Devin Toner and Mark Flanagan as well as our other recent signing Tom Denton."
Schmidt added: "Andrew is a quality player and has been a consistent place-kicker for a number of years.
"Both players are determined to make a positive impression over the forthcoming season and we are very pleased to have secured their services.
"We are also delighted that Luke has committed to the province for another year. Luke is an outstanding talent and he has played a major role in Leinster's recent success.''

Edinburgh rope in Titterrell

Edinburgh have signed 31-year-old former British and Irish Lions hooker Andy Titterrell on a one-year deal.

Canadian flyer Taylor Paris has signed a one-year deal with Glasgow Warriors which keeps him at the club until at least the end of May 2013.

The 19-year-old winger made his mark as a teenage sensation for his national side and has already impressed the coaching staff with his work ethic in pre-season.

"I'm not the first player from Canada to play for the Warriors so the side is really well known back home and I jumped at the chance to come and play in Glasgow," said Paris.

"This is a fantastic opportunity for me and I've really enjoyed the first couple of weeks of training. I know I need to keep working hard and putting in the effort to make the most of it.

"It's a squad with a lot of talent so I know I have to work hard to earn my place here."

Leicester have announced the signings of back rower Brett Deacon and scrum-half Pat Phibbs ahead of the new Aviva Premiership season.

Deacon, who came up through the ranks at Tigers, returns to Welford Road after two years at Gloucester.

The 30-year-old arrives as an injury dispensation signing following long-term injuries to Tom Croft (neck) and Craig Newby (knee) and will provide cover in the back row.

Former Exeter Chiefs halfback Phibbs arrives at Welford Road following injuries to Ben Youngs (shoulder) and Academy scrum-half Scott Steele (ankle). He will provide cover for Sam Harrison and Micky Young.

The 30-year-old Australian has experience of Super Rugby with the Brumbies, where he worked with Tigers head coach Matt O'Connor.

"Brett has done well for Gloucester during the past couple of years and he already knows the environment well at Leicester," said Tigers director of rugby Richard Cockerill.

"We have had some injury issues in the back row with Craig Newby and Tom Croft out, and Jordan Crane coming back from long-term injury.

"Brett has played more than 100 first-class games and can come in and fit in where we need him to because he has plenty of experience.

"At scrum-half, Ben Youngs is out after shoulder surgery and Scott Steele has not done any pre-season because of the injury he picked up at the end of last season.

"He will not play until the end of August so we need to have a bit of an insurance policy at scrum-half.

"Pat is that person and will be here for four months.

"Matt O'Connor knows him well from his time at the Brumbies, and Pat knows the Aviva Premiership well because he was with the Exeter Chiefs last season."

Springbok wing Bryan Habana will leave the Stormers after this year’s Vodacom Super Rugby competition to join French Top 14 club, Toulon.

Die Burger was reliably informed that Habana penned the deal with the French side in the last few days.

This comes after Toulon president Mourad Boudjellal confirmed last month that the Top 14 leaders were in hot pursuit of the Springbok flyer. Boudjellal said at the time the chances of Habana joining Toulon were "closer to 10 than zero."

At this stage it's unsure exactly how long Habana, 29, will play in France, nor whether he will be available for the Springboks' Incoming tests against Italy and Scotland in June.

The news will come as a blow to the Cape side as Habana was in top form last season, which saw him named SA Player of the Year for a third time.

Habana also won the Try of the Year award at last year's IRB awards, for his outstanding solo effort against the All Blacks in the Rugby Championship in Dunedin.

The 2013 Super Rugby season kicks off on Friday, February 15, with the Stormers due to play their first match on Friday, February 22 against Habana's former team, the Bulls, at Loftus Versfeld in Pretoria.

One of Leinster's brightest young stars, Andrew Conway, is set to join Munster at the end of the season on a two year contract
Conway first came to prominence as a member of the Blackrock College Senior Cup team and subsequently represented Ireland at Schools and Under 20 levels, scoring a hat-trick of tries against Scotland at the Junior World Cup two years ago and was again a member of the squad last summer in South Africa.
He made Leinster his debut as a 19-year-old in February 2010 when he came off the bench against Scarlets and further starts came against Cardiff Blues and Connacht and another appearance off the bench against Glasgow Warriors.

The following season he made eight Magners League appearances and chalked up tries against Benetton Treviso, Ospreys and a crucial second-half score in a 19-18 win over Edinburgh.

This season he has made 10 appearances to date for Leinster

Leinster Rugby have today confirmed that Isa Nacewa will leave the province at the end of the season and retire from professional rugby due to family reasons...
Nacewa, 30, joined Leinster in the summer of 2008 and has played a pivotal role in the province's three Heineken Cup titles.
Capped 116 times to date, the Aucklander has accumulated 375 points in all competitions. In 2011 Nacewa was named both the Irish Rugby Union Players' Association (IRUPA) and the Leinster Rugby Bank of Ireland Player of the Year, as well as being chosen as full-back on the 'PRO12 Dream Team' for 2011 and was shortlised for the ERC European Player of the Year.
Leinster expect to announce news of a new signing in the coming weeks.
Commenting on the news, Leinster coach Joe Schmidt said: "I've known Isa for a number of years. He's universally respected due to the quality of his character, his athleticism, skill and commitment.
"He has been great value for us, not just on the field where he has provided a string of highlights but off the field also, where he has contributed enormously to the development of the players around him."
"He's hugely popular amongst supporters and hopefully they will enjoy a few more outstanding performances from Isa in the coming weeks.


Will b a massive loss for them

Interesting times ahead for Leinster who will be looking at a new look back line next season.
In the short term they will have a much changed backline in the Amlin 1/4  final . In their last HC game v Exeter their backline read
Reddan
Sexton
Fitzgerald
Darcy
O'Driscoll
Nacewa
Kearney

Of those only Kearney, Nacewa and possibly Bod will be available. Probably a good thing to see if the young tyros can operate at this level  as starters . It will give Leinster a better idea of what they have facing into next season

Interesting times for Leinster alright. A lot of quality and experience will be missing from the end of the season.

Reddan, Madigan, Fitzgerald, McFadden, O'Malley, Kearney, Kearney

Separate point, but did you see BOD had his testimonial dinner in the Grosvenor in London the the other day? 2,000 guests at over £600 a pop. A "substantial amount" will be donated to charity, but it's absolutely scandalous that he trousers anything in this day and age. Testimonials were introduced to give former players a send off in the days when they had to rock up to training after a day's work with their own kit bag, not to further line the pockets of multi millionaires.

Above is the likely backline for next season

Dunc
I'd imagine Leinster will sign a couple of decent backs. No disrespect to the above but that backline would not keep Leinster at the forefront of European rugby. Furthermore any injuries to that backline and you are digging very deep.
The same thing happened Munster a couple of seasons back when a load of forwards had either long term injuries or actually retired. Because the pack had been set in stone a few guys had to be thrown in the deep end.

The tax claw back available to players who finish their careers in Ireland causes this logjam of players that ordinarily would be seeking richer pastures as in the case of English and welsh players. Munster suffered because of the sudden exodus and Leinster will have a job to avoid the same fate.
For years young Munster halfbacks (including Reddan)had to wait their turn behind ROG and Strings. Second rows watched POC and DOC .
In Leinster the same can be said of their young centres waiting for BOD and Darcy to pop their clogs. At least changes will be enforced for various reasoning

One other observation
It's a long time since Michael Bent's heroic scrum v SA.

I hate the whole Michael Bent thing. His first night in Ireland spent in Carton House, it's enough to make you sick! John Andress could have been called up for half the cost and wouldn't have done any worse. Even Jamie Hagan and we're now at the point where Stephen Archer is preferred to him. What a fiasco.

Leinster will have to sign somebody because you're into players fresh out of the academy after those named above. From what I've seen, only Brendan Macken looks like he might be ready to step up. Maybe Noel Reid as well, but it#s pushing it to be able to maintain any level of competitiveness by counting on those guys. I'm looking forward to seeing more of McFadden at 12, which i think might be his best position, but I'm not at all convinced that O'Malley is ready to become a top player and who knows if Luke Fitzgerald will be able to overcome his latest injury setback? I've spent the past couple of seasons wanting D'Arcy to take a step back but it wouldn't be the worst thing if he stuck around for a while now.

Nacewa in particular will be a big loss because he tends to fill on the days when the rest of them are off on international duty. A player like that is practically irreplacable.

Agree with what you're saying on the tax back scheme. It looks good on the face of it, but there aren't enough teams here to be giving all these lads time on the pitch and it causes huge problems as you say when a few retire at the same time. A period in the doldrums could beckon for Leinster

Springbok full-back Zane Kirchner will join Leinster later this year after signing a two-year contract with the club.
The 28-year-old has opted to move to Ireland rather than extend his contract with the South African Bulls franchise beyond its expiry at the end of October.
It is unclear when Kirchner will join his new team, with Bulls high performance manager Xander Janse van Rensburg hinting that the player could request a release before his current deal ends.
"We understand that an earlier release might be requested, but it is up to the board to approve that or not," Van Rensburg said in a media statement release by the franchise on Monday
"We have been in talks with Zane and his agent since November and although it is very disappointing to lose his services, we wish him well."
Kirchner joined the Bulls franchise in 2007 from Currie Cup side Griquas and was part of the squads that won the Super Rugby competition in his first year, and later in 2009 and 2010.
He made his Springbok debut in 2009 and has made 24 appearances.

Interesting signing that. Leinster had a multi-skilled back-three player, who could do a job at 10, in Nacewa and have replaced him with someone much better in the air (possibly the best in the game), but lacking the kicking game and probably a fair bit of the intelligence. I don't think Kirchner is all that quick, relatively speaking, and the one thing Leinster's back-three currently lack is pace. With Kearney having been one of the best in the world under the high ball for years it seems odd to add another very similar player. One of them has to play on the wing, so with 2 Kearneys and a Kirchner who is going to score the tries? Leinster as a whole were far better than Wasps for example, but had all sorts of problems with the pace of Wasps wingers.

Speaking ahead of Leinster’s Rabo Direct playoff game against Glasgow, Jonny Sexton claims he’d still be a Leinster player next year if the province had sat down and talked to him.
Next season, Irish rugby will lose one its star player as Jonny Sexton swaps the blue and white of Leinster for the blue and white of Racing Metro in a move that will see him become the highest paid player in France.
However, according to the exciting out-half this all could have been avoided as he told The Irish Examiner: “Leinster still is a massive part of my life, not just my career but my personal life as well,”
“A lot of my best friends are guys that I have been playing rugby with since I was 15 or 16. It was never between me and Leinster.
“If me and Leinster sat down I’m sure I would be there next year but that’s not the way it works.”
“That’s unfortunate but, listen, once these next three (Leinster) games are finished and the small matter of a Lions tour is over, I can start to get excited about a new challenge in my life.”
“The club have been great in helping me get organised. I know a good few of the players and it’s very exciting the quality of players they have signed for next year.”
“There’s a lot of English-speaking guys which will help me settle in, but I am determined to make an impression on the French guys as well.”
With Sexton Paris bound Leinster’s outhalf responsibilities lie in one of Ireland’s most exciting prospect, Ian Madigan. In recent week’s he has been lining up outside Sexton, at first centre, and many are wondering could such a partnership work for the Irish team in the future rather than having both player’s fighting for one position.
Sexton is among a number of backs set to leave Leinster this summer with Isa Nacewa, Andrew Conway and Fionn Carr all set to leave the RDS.

“If me and Leinster sat down I’m sure I would be there next year but that’s not the way it works.”

Not sure what he's trying to achieve by coming out with comments like that. He has a mouth on him, doesn't he? And an agent. I suspect being made the highest paid player in Europe had something to do it.

I assume he means "if me and Leinster sat down, with a huge offer on the table, etc etc".

Odd comment otherwise. Are we to believe that the club didn't even try to keep him?

This is really late to be added to the thread, but here goes anyway:

Kris Burton
Thirty two year old Burton, born in Australia, made his debut for Italy against Uruguay in 2007. He currently has 21 caps and last played for Italy in the RBS Six Nations 2013 Tournament. A renowned game controller and tactician, Burton has been instrumental in the development of Treviso into a top quality competitive team. His experiences to date will help provide guidance to a young Dragons squad.





Martin Muller
Muller currently plays for the Cheetahs in the Super 15 competition. He has represented his country at a number of age-group levels, including SA Schools and SA under 21, before then making his Super rugby debut with the Stormers in 2009. The South African is known for his superb lineout skills and physical work ethic.





Netani Talei
The 29 year old has the ability to play at number eight or as a flanker at the highest level. He brings experience and leadership having competed in the RaboDirect Pro12 tournament and in the Heineken Cup with Edinburgh. He has also played over 50 games with Worcester Warriors between 2007-2010. Considered one of the best ball carrying forwards in last year’s Heineken Cup Competition, made him a contender for the ERC European Player of the Year.






Francisco Nahuel Tetaz Chaparro
Chapparro currently plays his rugby at Stade Francias in the tough scrimmaging French Pro 14. The 23 year old was a member of the Los Pampas Vodacom Cup championship winning side and has been recently capped by Argentina against France and Italy.



Richie Rees is coming here too

Should point out that the players are moving to the Dragons.

Munster today announced that current squad captain Doug Howlett will retire from professional rugby at the end of this season.
The decision was forced on the former All Black through injury sustained in the RaboDirect PRO12 game against Glasgow Warriors in the game played in Scotstoun at the end of March.
At that stage, 34 year old Howlett was in contract extension negotiations with Munster but hasn’t been able to play since because of the shoulder injury he suffered in the course of scoring Munster’s third try.  He underwent surgery in a Dublin hospital earlier this month and acting on medical advice will retire at season end.

Howlett joined Munster in January 2008 and played a key role in their Heineken Cup success that season. He won his 100th cap against Leinster in the October 2012 League game and ends his Munster career as their all-time second leading try scorer with 35 tries after five and a half seasons. He became just the second overseas player and the first back to be nominated squad captain at the start of the current season.

Howlett has intimated that he will remain on in Cork for the immediate future where he lives with his wife and three children.

Other departures from the current squad - besides Peter Stringer who remains with Bath, Marcus Horan who announced his retirement recently, Sean Scanlon (Rotherham Titans) and Sean Henry (Connacht) -  include Wian du Preez who returns to his native South Africa, Scott Deasy and Christy Condon.

BJ Botha will continue on with Munster having signed a two year contract extension while Danny Barnes has not been re-contracted but is understood to have negotiated an opportunity to play abroad and news of that will be confirmed in the coming weeks.

TEST

Connacht Rugby is pleased to announce the latest in our new player signings for the upcoming season.

20-year-old Jake Heenan from New Zealand has signed for the province on a three year deal.

An abrasive openside flanker, Heenan captained the New Zealand Under-20’s when they finished runners-up to South Africa in the 2012 Junior World Championship last summer.

The former Whangarei Boys' High School First XV captain went on to sign for Auckland and was a member of the Blues development programme.

Incoming Head Coach Pat Lam spoke about the young forward he spotted at an early age:

“I came across Jake when he was 17 years old. He played for the Blues Under-18 team when they won the National competition and, even then, I could see what a natural leader and genuine team player he was.

“He brought those leadership skills, as well as his physicality, to the U20 World Championship last summer with the Baby Blacks.

“Jake is highly regarded back in New Zealand and it is a real coup for Connacht to catch him. I’m very much looking forward to working with him when he arrives here in early July.”

Strange, they let Danny Barnes go who looked alright in the handful of games he played last season, but they'll keep on dirt trackers like Ivan Dineen...

http://www.therugbyforum.com/forum/showthread.php?30102-Transfers-2013-2014-recap

Good summary for the NH 2013/2014 transfers here.

Really like the look of the Montpelier Ins and Outs - 66/1 in the Heineken cup outright market looks a nice price. 16/1 for the Top 14 Grnd Final.

In the Rabo, it looks like Ulster and Glasgow have managed to retain there most important players. Likely Leinster are going to be in transition this year, Ospreys have lost the one player who was carrying them to a large extent last season, and Munster look in decline. Glasgow might be worth a pop at 6/1. Down the other end the Scarlets look like they may be primed for gloom.

Like the look of the Worcester signings in the Prem. Creevey is a quality hooker and Mieres and Su'a are decent players

Leinster secure Tuqiri on short-term deal.. http://tinyurl.com/nlj7wuk


Leinster Rugby are pleased to announce the signing of Wallaby legend Lote Tuqiri on a short-term deal...
 
"...Lote has an enormous wealth of experience in the game and we believe that he will play an important role in the squad over the coming weeks..." - Leinster Coach Matt O'Connor
A decorated dual international, Tuqiri (33) was born in Namatakula, Fiji and is a legend of the world game. He represented the Brisbane Broncos and the Australian Kangaroos between 1999-2002.

Following his switch to rugby union, he made his international debut against Ireland in Perth in June 2003 (which the home side won 45-16) and immediately made an impact, being Australia's star player at the Rugby World Cup where he scored a try in the final against England.

He continued to play for the NSW Waratahs and the Australian Wallabies between 2003-08, including another World Cup in France in 2007. In all he made 67 appearances for the Wallabies, of which 4 caps came against Ireland.

Lote then left Australian rugby for a season with the Leicester Tigers in England where he excelled before the West Tigers lured him back to Rugby League and he fulfilled his dream of again playing for the Kangaroos on his return.

Commenting on the deal, Leinster Coach Matt O'Connor said: "We are delighted to welcome a player of Lote's calibre and his enthusiasm to make a positive impression at Leinster is exciting for both his new team-mates and supporters alike.

"A consummate professional, Lote has an enormous wealth of experience in the game and we believe that he will play an important role in the squad over the coming weeks."

Leinster's Richardt Strauss has discovered a hole in his heart and faces long lay-off after surgery this week. Wishing him well.


Another big loss for them

Agreed  BJG. Hope everything works out for him.

Indeed, at least it was found b4 anything happened! Good luck to him in his recovery

Jack McGrath. To Ulster ?

John Afoa (Ulster) to unnamed English Premiership club

Marty Moore (Leinster) to France

SCRUM-half Conor Murray has signed a new two year contract with the IRFU which will see him remain at Munster until at least June 2016.

However, it has also been confirmed that Murray is set to be sidelined for up to six weeks after sustaining medial ligament damage in his right knee against Perpignan on Sunday. The news looks set to rule Limerickman Murray out of Munster’s three remaining Heineken Cup pool fixtures, starting with Sunday’s return tie with Perpignan at the Stade Aime Giral.

The announcement on Murray’s new contract ends speculation that Lions star may be considering a big-money move to France next season.

Murray today said he was delighted to have penned the new contract which will keep him at Munster for two more seasons at least.

The news is a big boost to Munster ahead of Saturday’s crucial Heineken Cup return fixture against Perpignan at the Stade Aime Giral, although Murray is set to miss that game due to a knee injury.

Commenting on his contract extension, Murray said: “I am thrilled to sign a new IRFU contract and to continue playing my rugby with Munster. In 2013 I learned a lot as a player with my club, Ireland and the Lions and I hope to continue to develop and push for honours over the coming years.”

Limerickman Murray made his senior debut for Munster against Connacht in April 2010. The Munster Rugby academy graduate has made 49 appearances for Munster and has scored 6 tries. Garryowen clubman Murray made his Ireland debut against France in a World Cup warm-up in August 2011. The 24 year old has won 22 caps and has scored 2 international tries. His last appearance for Ireland was in November 2013 against New Zealand in the recent Guinness Series reverse.

Murray was selected for the 2013 British and Irish Lions tour of Australia and featured in seven of the Lions’ tour matches including the final two Test matches. He scored two tries for the Lions touching down against Combined NSW-QLD Country and the Melbourne Rebels.

Munster Coach Rob Penney said: “We are delighted that Conor has signed a new IRFU contract which will secure him to Munster until the end of the 2016 season. “Conor has illustrated in recent months the value he brings to not only Munster but to the national team as well At 24 he is still a young guy and he has the potential to go on to become one of the best scrum-halves in the game.”

IRFU, CEO, Philip Browne, added: “Conor has made a significant impact on Munster and Irish rugby since making his breakthrough in 2011. We are delighted that he has signed a new contract that will keep him at Munster until the end of the 2016 season.”

MUNSTER HAVE CONFIRMED the signing of Robin Copeland on a two year deal from July 2014.
The Cardiff Blues blindside flanker joined for the Welsh club from Rotherham Titans last year and has since featured prominently – playing eight times in the Heineken Cup including a man-of-the-match display in the win over current champions Toulon in October.
Munster head coach Rob Penney said: “We’ve seen Robin in action first hand and we’ve always been hugely impressed by his potential.
“From his experience in playing a number of positions he brings a great deal of versatility and we believe he will be a great addition to the squad. He will add value to a highly competitive area of our game.”
A former Leinster academy player, 26-year-old Wexford native Copeland recently told TheScore.ie that he intended to one day return to play in Ireland.
He also revealed that it is his “dream” to line for the international team, which is believed to have played a part in his decision.

French paper Midi Olympique reports that Bernard Laporte of Toulon was in Ireland last week to meet Heaslip and O'Brien's agents.

LONDON IRISH's desire to land a marquee Irish player could see them enter the market for Keith Earls as the IRFU look to tie up the Munster winger's contract.

Irish missed out on Earls' Munster and Ireland team-mate Donnacha Ryan last month as he committed to the province for a further three years.

The English club was taken over by Cavan businessman Mick Crossan last month and the new regime want to build the Exiles into a fifth province by signing more Irish-based players.

They already have Ian Humphreys, Eamonn Sheridan, Jamie Hagan and Tomas O'Leary on their books, but the addition of Earls would give them the frontline Ireland star they crave -- the French interest in Jamie Heaslip and Sean O'Brien has priced the Lions back-row duo out of the market.

The Premiership strugglers could also be interested in Leinster's Dave Kearney, with the Ireland winger in negotiations over a new deal.

Sean O Brien has signed to stay at Leinster for another 2 years - massive for them

The IRFU and Leinster are pleased to announce that Sean O'Brien has signed a new two year contract with the IRFU which will see him remain at Leinster until at least June 2016.
Commenting on the new contract Sean O'Brien said: "It is flattering to find yourself the subject of interest from some of the biggest rugby clubs in the world but in the end I made a decision based on the standard mix of professional and personal considerations.
"It was a very difficult decision but, with a World Cup next year and the fact that I believe Leinster can continue to win trophies, I have decided to commit my immediate future to the club.

"I am very excited about what Ireland can achieve under Joe Schmidt and I am confident that under Matt O'Connor, Leinster will remain the power in Europe it has been over the past 5 or 6 years.

"I want to acknowledge the professionalism of all those involved, including the overseas clubs with whom I had discussions, and thank Leinster and the IRFU for their commitment to me.

"Finally a word about the Leinster fans because their "voice" represents an important consideration for players like me when it comes to making big career decisions such as this."

Sean made his senior debut for Leinster against Cardiff Blues in September 2008 and has since made 87 appearances for Leinster scoring 15 tries.

He made his Ireland debut in the 41-6 win over Fiji at the RDS in November 2009. The 26 year old has won 30 caps for Ireland and was named ERC Player of the Year in 2011.

His last appearance for Ireland was in the 22-20 loss to New Zealand in November.

O'Brien toured with the British & Irish Lions in 2013 and played a pivotal role in the decisive 3rd Test at the ANZ Stadium. O'Brien has won three Heineken Cups, an Amlin Cup and a Pro12 league title with Leinster.

IRFU CEO, Philip Browne, said: "Sean is one of world rugby's stand out talents. He has proven for Leinster, Ireland and the Lions that he is world class player and we are delighted that Sean has committed his future to Leinster and Ireland for the next two years."

Leinster CEO Mick Dawson said: "We are delighted that Sean has signed a new IRFU contract which keeps him at Leinster up to the end of the 2016 season.

"We were always hopeful that the environment we have created here at Leinster and the ambition of the club would be a strong factor in Sean's decision. He is a truly world class player and we are delighted that his future has now been put to rest."

Head Coach Rob Penney & Backs Coach Simon Mannix will leave Munster at end of this season,full details to follow on http://www.munsterrugby.ie


What odd timing

More of a contract not being renewed that leaving actually i assume so scratch that

Munster Rugby can today confirm that Head Coach Rob Penney and Backs Coach Simon Mannix will leave the province at the end of the current season.

Rob joined the Munster set-up at the start of the 2012/13 season and in his first year guided the squad to semi-final stage of the Heineken Cup and a sixth place finish in the RaboDirect PRO12 league.
This season Munster have recorded 15 wins out of 18 games and are currently top of the RaboDirect PRO12 league and through to quarter final stage of the Heineken Cup for the fifteenth time in the competition's history.
Penney, who initially negotiated a two year contract with the option for a third year, has opted to decline the extension offer. The terms and conditions of this extension had been agreed by the Munster Professional Games Committee and the IRFU but Rob has since attracted the interest of another club and there are terms on offer that are in line with Rob's long-term needs.
Fellow New Zealander and Backs Coach Simon Mannix, who joined Munster at the same time as Penney, will also leave at the end of this season.
Commenting on the departures Munster Rugby Chief Executive Garrett Fitzgerald said, "When we reach the end of the season Rob will leave with our thanks and best wishes for the future.
"Rob has been a very positive influence on this Munster squad and management and we are disappointed to see him go as we had hoped that he would fulfil his third season. In developing the squad he has highlighted the strength and depth of the Munster panel, with the competition for places as high as ever.
"I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Simon for his work and commitment to the province, and we wish him all the best for the future. He has contributed to Munster's overall campaign and added great value to our coaching team.
"We now need to focus on the remainder of this season and the opportunities ahead in both the Heineken Cup and the RaboDirect PRO12. We are confident both Simon and Rob will continue to strive for success and guide the squad through to the next stage."
Head Coach Rob Penney said "I am disappointed to be leaving Munster as I have thoroughly enjoyed my time here. I have to take this opportunity presented to me and prioritise my family and personal circumstances at this time.
We still have a few months to go and the goals remain the same - I want to achieve success with this great group of lads!"

Back to basics with Axel then.

I wonder if Leinster might try and lure Zebo.

Aye would look like its bein put on a plate for Foley - not been the biggest Penney fan tbh but he aint done a lot wrong this year tbf

I am sure ROG sees himself as Chef D'Equipe in waiting but still serving his time as Sexton's water bottle carrier.

If i was ROG id rather keep my big juicy pay packet for doin nothin on holiday in France for as long as possible

yes, good point.  It's a handy gig with little responsibility.

Connacht Rugby has captured a major overseas signing for the 2014/15 season. Mils Muliaina has signed a one-year IRFU contract to become the first ever All Black to play with the Irish province at the Sportsground.



Wow

I thought Craig Clarke was a great signing for them. Muliaina is past his prime, but still a hell of a coup. Connacht really trying to build something.

Muster today confirmed that Canterbury and Crusaders player Tyler Bleyendaal will join the province on a 3-year contract from November 1 this year.

Playing at out-half or centre, the 23-year-old has made 19 Super Rugby appearances for the Crusaders and represented Canterbury in the ITM Cup nearly 40 times.

A former New Zealand U20s player, the Christchurch-born Bleyendaal captained the side to victory in the 2010 Junior World Championship in Argentina.

“I am really excited to be heading to a new challenge of playing in a great competition in a new part of the world, for a world renowned team,” said Bleyendaal.

“The decision was not an easy one as my time with Canterbury and the Crusaders has been amazing, being involved with quality people every day has made the place special.

“From the research I have done I am sure that Munster will be very similar, a proud team with a great record.”
Commenting on the latest signing Munster Rugby CEO Garrett Fitzgerald said

“We are very fortunate to recruit the services of a talented young player such as Tyler Bleyendaal. We believe Tyler can play an important role in the future of Munster Rugby, and will further strengthen our squad.

“In his roles at 10 and 12 he has been a key decision maker with an intelligent understanding of the game, and will provide us with an exciting option in midfield.”

Munster Rugby can today confirm that James Coughlan will leave the province at the end of June.

James is currently contracted to the province until June 2015 but Munster Rugby have accepted the player's request for an early release from contract and support Coughlan in his decision to move abroad.

After playing 139 times for Munster and scoring 13 tries James Coughlan played his final game for the province against Glasgow Warriors in the RaboDirect PRO12 semi-final at Scotstoun Stadium on May 16th.

A late arrival to the professional game Coughlan joined Munster at 26 years of age after impressive performances at club level with Dolphin RFC in the All Ireland League. The back-row forward made his debut against Cardiff Blues in September 2006 at The Arms Park, and went on to make his Heineken Cup debut against Leicester Tigers in January 2007 in Thomond Park.

Battling for places in a highly contested area the Cork-man soon established himself as a regular in the squad, and over 8 seasons has become one of Munster's leading stars.

Recognised for his consistent and outstanding performances James has been an integral part of the Munster pack. His breakthrough season came in 2010/11 when he captained Munster to a historic 15-6 victory against Australia in Thomond Park and claimed the Munster Rugby Player of the Year award.

He was again shortlisted for the honour in 2012, and again this season, after playing on 25 occasions, scoring 4 tries and claiming 3 man-of-the-match awards. His journey also includes a Heineken Cup in 2008 and 2 Celtic League titles, in 2009 and 2011.

While full international recognition has eluded him despite being called up by Ireland on numerous occasions, the player, who turns 34 in December, has played for Ireland 7s and featured in the uncapped game against the Barbarians in May 2012, before captaining the Ireland Wolfhounds against the England Saxons in January 2013.

On confirming the move James Coughlan said, "This was a difficult decision for me to make. I was presented with an opportunity that I had to take for myself and my young family as we plan for our future. I want to thank Garrett (Fitzgerald) and the Professional Game Committee for their support in facilitating my request to leave the province.

"Playing for Munster has been a dream come through. I never thought I would have achieved what I have and the whole experience has been life-changing.

"I am so thankful for my career and the incredible support I have received along the way. It is with the heaviest of hearts that I am leaving but an amazing challenge awaits me and my family.

"My wife Katri and children Finn, Aoibhinn and Elsie have been an incredible support and we are really looking forward to the next chapter of our lives.

"I want to wish the Munster Rugby squad, staff and supporters all the success for the future, and my family and I will always be cheering you on!"

Commenting on Coughlan's departure Munster Rugby CEO Garrett Fitzgerald said, "James is an honest and committed player with a terrific work-rate, and he has delivered over and over again for Munster.

"He is an example to all aspiring players - dedication and hard-work at club level secured his fate as he broke into professional rugby and excelled as a player, something we are extremely thankful for.

"It is hard for us to release such a valuable asset but we fully support James and his family and wish them all the best with their move."





Must be France? Odd one

Ian Nagle - turned down contract offer, was the next big thing comin up but never did anything tbh

Niall Ronan - retired due to injury

James Downey - not wanted

Casey Lualua - goes to Racing Metro

James Coughlan - asks to leave



Some gaps to fill there for Munster!

Hogg 99.9% certain to be leaving Glasgow too. He's not in the final squad at all so the rumours of a behind the scenes fall out look correct. To be fair he would have done well to shift Murchie out the starting XV anyway.
Ulster has long been rumoured and is his likely destination but I've heard Saracens might be interested too.
A bit of a sad way to leave the club & I hope he isn't off on a Cipriani/Henson type trajectory.

Craig Clarke retires due to concussions. Bit of a blow for Connacht.

Interesting about Hogg leaving, bit of a shame for one of the brightest stars in Scotland to leave like that. Munster's recruitment will be interesting, looks like JJ Hanrahan is going to be a 12 from now on anyway.

the hogg story is getting a bit murky. it now appears that the meeting he had with ulster may well have been about the possibility of him joining for the 2015/16 season once his contract had expired with glasgow.
rather stupidly they had the meeting it in an hotel where they were spotted and not surprisingly townsend was not too happy.
i may however have been very wide of the mark assuming he was definitely off though as ulster don't seem all that keen on paying the compensation and i guess he was not really in their plans for next season anyway.
maybe the sarries rumour is now more likely and they will nip & pay the cash if glasgow are prepared to let him go. goode & hogg would be a handy couple of 15's to have in your squad.

Certainly a very promising player to add to any squad so I wouldn't be surprised if a few French teams were sniffing around as well.

Tom Heathcote to Edinburgh. Now that's a sensible signing. Left in the cold a bit by Bath despite outshining Stephen Donald the season before and Edinburgh could do with a good 10, all the better for him being Scottish.

Matthew Morgan heading to Bristol, who look unlikely to make it to the Premiership this time around. Seems a bit of a step backward for a talented player.

Louis Ludik going to Ulster, which adds weight to the idea that Payne will be playing more at 13

Ireland fly-half Jonathan Sexton has signed a four-year deal with Leinster to return home next season, according to reports.

According to the Irish Independent, Sexton has come to an agreement with the IRFU and will return to Dublin for the start of the 2015/2016 season.

The news will no doubt be welcomed by Ireland head coach Joe Schmidt, who worked extensively with Sexton during his time with Leinster and has stated in the past his preference for Ireland's leading players to be playing at home ahead of the Rugby World Cup.

Sexton's current club, Racing Métro, revealed last week that they had also offered Sexton a four-year deal to stay in Paris.

The 29-year-old joined Racing at the start of last season on a two-year contract with the option of a third beyond 2014/2015.

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