Ireland international Kieran Marmion pens new deal with Connacht

Connacht have confirmed that Ireland international Kieran Marmion as penned a new three-year deal with the Pro14 club.

Marmion is a product of Connacht Academy with his senior debut coming in 2012 and since then has racked up 160 appearances for the province.

Having represented Ireland at Under 18, Under 19 and Under 20 levels, his Test debut came in 2014 and has gone on to play 27 games for his country with his last appearance coming in August this year in the World Cup warm-up game against Wales.

Connacht head coach Andy Friend lavished praise on Marmion and his decision to remain with the club.

“Kieran has been an outstanding player for Connacht and for Ireland. He is a diligent professional and through his hard work he has progressed through the Connacht Academy and on to play for Ireland.

"His progress demonstrates the support that is available to players through our academy pathway.

"Kieran’s commitment to Connacht for a further three seasons demonstrates his ambition to contribute at provincial and international level in the coming years.

"His signing also ensures that we continue to retain a squad equipped to compete at the highest level of European club rugby”.

Connacht kick-started their Challenge Cup campaign with a 23-20 win over Montpellier and will face Toulouse in the second round at Stade Ernest Wallon on 23rd November.