Connacht confirm Ciaran Frawley on two-year deal

Connacht have confirmed the signing of Ireland international Ciarán Frawley on a two-year contract, completing his move from Leinster ahead of the upcoming season.

The 28-year-old had been strongly linked with a switch to the west in recent weeks, with Leinster senior coach Jacques Nienaber earlier declining to rule out a departure.

Connacht have now finalised the deal, which will see Frawley reunite with former Leinster senior coach Stuart Lancaster at Dexcom Stadium.

Frawley made his Leinster debut in 2018 and went on to register more than 100 appearances for the province across multiple competitions. Highly regarded for his adaptability, he has featured at out-half, centre, full-back and on the wing during his provincial career.

He was part of Leinster’s matchday squad as recently as last weekend, playing the full 80 minutes in their 13–8 United Rugby Championship win over Munster at Thomond Park, marking his ninth appearance of the current campaign.

At international level, Frawley made his Ireland debut against Italy in August 2023. He gained significant attention in 2024 when he kicked two late drop-goals to secure Ireland’s second-Test victory over South Africa.

Since then, opportunities at Test level have been limited, with the versatile back currently holding nine international caps.

"I’m really excited to have the opportunity to represent Connacht on and off the field from next season," he said.

"I can’t wait to link up with Stuart again, meet all my new teammates and the wider staff next summer, and help the club bring success to the province in the years ahead.

"I’ve loved my time at Leinster and I’m really appreciative for all the support from the fans, coaches and team-mates over the last seven years.

"There’s still a lot of work to do and I’m looking forward to finishing the season strongly before the move to Galway in the summer."