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Josh Murphy becomes latest Leinster forward to up sticks
By Ian Cameron
Leinster utility forward Josh Murphy has become the latest forward to head to the exit, with Connacht confirming his signing.
The 6'6, 110kg 26-year-old joins Andy Friend's side on a two-year deal. Murphy had struggled to get consistent game time at the province, where head coach Leo Cullen is struggling to juggle a roster full of backrow and secondrow talent. Principally a flanker, he is among of number of Leinster players who can play second row that are assessing their options.
Academy lock Jack Dunne appears to be heading to Gallagher Premiership heavyweights Exeter Chiefs while, as first reported by RugbyPass, Charlie Ryan is also on the shopping list of a number of English clubs.
“At this stage of my career I feel it is time to try and contribute to a new environment and hopefully try and put my hand up to get out on the pitch every week. Playing matches regularly is what I love about this sport" said Murphy.
"Andy Friend, and his coaching team, are building something special in the West and you can see that in the brand of rugby they play.
"When the time comes, I’ll look forward to a new chapter and it is one that I am really excited about.”
Friend described Murphy’s arrival as a 'boost'.
“Josh has all the attributes to be an important Connacht player for the next two seasons. Physically he’s very strong on and off the ball and coupled with an excellent skill set he is a player that very much suits our playing style.
"We’re delighted he’s chosen to come to Connacht and help add to the excellent squad we are already building here.”
Leinster appear set to sign one cap Springbok Jason Jenkins from Munster. The 6'7, 125kg lock who can play in the backrow has appeared just a handful of times for Munster since joining them from the Bulls a year ago.
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Latest Comments
Thanks for a most interesting article, Brett. The build up to Lions tours is always fun, and these articles are great for discussion, and in my case education, as I don’t always get round to watching all the Super games fully.
For example I had not realised Hodgeman was 31, thought he was younger. So he is right in that age bracket where props down the ages often reach their peak. With his NZ background, he is a huge asset to have, first at Qld, second for the WB’s.
Daugunu, yes, and the time at the Rebels has seen his game refined, he is strong candidate. The player I would add to the list is Josh Canham. Not many mentioning him atm, but at 2.02 m and 116 kgs, and the way he is playing for the Reds, I would be looking at him as strong WB squad member. Uru I really like, as he brings a lot of flair with his game.
Good to hear you report that Schmidt is now not ruling Langi Gleeson out of Lions games contention. Wise move, as he is having now a very strong season, even outstanding. Good to see potential now being realised.
I would think Carlo Tizzano would also be one that Schmidt is looking at with interest. He has workrd hard to get to where he now is, and is having a very strong season. Sam Cane type player, a hard man. I guess he is a worthy successor to that great Force 7 of times past, Matt Hodgson.
Go to commentsIDK what your on about, a lot of people down here were very much tuned in on the All Blacks
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