CONNACHT AND THE IRFU have today announced the signing of Jarrad Butler from the Brumbies.
The 25-year old has 70 Super Rugby appearances to his name and can play all three positions across the back row.
He has spent the past four seasons with the Brumbies, winning the club’s Players’ Player of the Year award in 2014.
Born in Wellington, Butler moved to Australia at the age of 13 and has represented his adopted country at every age grade up to U20s.
He made his Super Rugby debut for the Queensland Reds as a 20-year-old against the Highlanders in 2012.
Speaking of the move, Butler said:
“I am extremely excited to be given this opportunity to join Connacht.
I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time at the Brumbies, however this new set of challenges on the other side of the world is something that I can’t wait to embrace.
“I look forward to being part of this proud club, meeting the supportive fans and community, and most importantly doing everything I can to help Connacht be successful.”
Butler is the seventh new addition to the Connacht senior squad this summer following the arrivals of scrum-half James Mitchell, prop Peter McCabe and second row Gavin Thornbury along with Academy graduates Conor McKeon (scrum-half), Cormac Brennan (utility back) and Pat O’Toole (hooker).
Commenting on the latest player signing, Connacht Rugby CEO Willie Ruane said:
“We’re delighted to be signing someone of Jarrad’s rugby ability and believe he will be a big addition to our squad.
As a back-rower who is equally adept in all three positions, he brings a huge amount of versatility to the team. He is an extremely talented player who has been on the Wallabies’ radar for some time.
“At a young age, Jarrad has already gained a great deal of experience as a leader in a professional environment and we look forward to welcoming him to Connacht Rugby at the conclusion of the Super Rugby season.”
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