CONNACHT HAVE CONFIRMED the signing of former Munster tighthead prop Rory Burke ahead of next season.
The 25-year-old has spent the past two campaigns with English Championship side Nottingham, playing more than 30 times for the club.
A former Ireland U20 international, Burke came through the ranks with his native Munster and made his senior debut for the province in a Guinness Pro14 clash with Benetton in 2017, soon before his move to Nottingham.
The Cork Constitution man, who came through Christian Brothers College, will make his return to Irish rugby with Andy Friend’s Connacht next season, providing another tighthead option in the province’s squad as they look forward to Champions Cup rugby.
Meanwhile, Connacht have announced that scrum-half Stephen Kerins will advance onto a senior contract next season after coming through the western province’s academy.
The 23-year-old Sligo man, a former Ireland U20 international, earned his senior debut in the Challenge Cup clash with Bordeaux in January.
“We are delighted to add Rory Burke and Stephen Kerins to our squad ahead of our 2019/20 campaign,” said Connacht boss Friend.
“In the season just gone, squad depth was really important to our success in qualifying for the Champions Cup. With more big games ahead that depth will be tested even further.
“Rory will give us another option up front, while Stephen’s graduation from the academy will be needed to add to our list of scrum-half options.”
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