Ireland lock Ultan Dillane to leave Connacht at end of season

Connacht have confirmed that Ireland international Ultan Dillane will be leaving the province at the end of the ongoing season.

A product of Connacht Academy, Dillane made his debut for the senior team in 2014 and has made 122 appearances for the club since then.

The 28-year-old made his international debut for Ireland in 2016 and has gone on to play 19 Tests with his last appearance coming in July.

“This has been one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever had to make, but ultimately I feel that the time has come for me to experience a new challenge in my career," he told in a statement released by the club.

"I am forever grateful to all the coaches and wider staff at Connacht I’ve worked with these past 10 years. You have all helped make my dream of becoming a professional and international rugby player a reality.

"I’ve also been fortunate to play alongside some incredible players both for Connacht and Ireland, and I have made some friends for life.

"The Connacht supporters are among the best in the world and I’d like to thank them for all the support they’ve given me too. The West of Ireland will always be a special place to me.

"I will be giving absolutely everything to finish my time in Connacht on a high, and help all of us to go on to have a really successful season. This is a team on the up and I’ll forever be a Connacht Rugby supporter.”

Connacht are positioned seventh in the United Rugby Championship with three wins from seven matches.