CONNACHT HAVE CONFIRMED the signings of Ian Porter and Shane O’Leary ahead of next season.
Ulster scrum-half Porter will join on a two-year deal to provide competition to Kieran Marmion in the number nine shirt at the province, while Grenoble centre/out-half O’Leary signs on a one-year contract.
26-year-old Porter has racked up 11 Pro12 appearances for Ulster in recent seasons, having originally progressed from the province’s academy. The former Ireland U20 international provides a strong place-kicking option, as well as consistent passing and a sharp tactical brain.
O’Leary, 21, has spent the past season with Top 14 side Grenoble, having joined from Ulster Bank League outfit Young Munster last summer. The Cork native – who was raised in Clare – has made five appearances in the Amlin Challenge Cup during this campaign, starting once in the 13 shirt.
A Canada international at U20 level, O’Leary finished the 2013 IRB Junior World Trophy as the competition’s overall top points scorer.
Commenting on his latest signings, Connacht head coach Pat Lam said:
“It’s fantastic to have two more, young, Irish-qualified backs on board for next season. Both Ian and Shane will be valuable additions to the squad.
“Having someone like Shane who can play 13, 12 or 10 is a huge asset. Both himself and Ian have goal-kicking abilities and this is something we looked at when recruiting for the season ahead.”
