Daily Mirror (Northern Ireland)
‘DREW HIM IN
CONNACHT are poised to sign former Australian U-20 out-half Andrew Deegan.
Incoming coach Kieran Keane is strengthening his squad for the new season and Deegan will come in as a replacement for former Springbok Marnitz Boshoff, who has departed the province after just one season.
The South African had an unhappy time at the Sportsground – making just four appearances after being Connacht’s marquee signing in the defence of the Pro12 crown – and will not be returning for the second year of his contract.
Keane’s search for a replacement appears to have settled on the promising talent of Deegan, who last year was drafted into the Waratahs development squad in pre-season.
The 22-year old was the Aussie out-half at the World Rugby U-20 Championship in Italy – a tournament where Joey Carbery announced his arrival for Ireland. The Sydney native will battle with Jack Carty and Steve Crosbie for the No.10 slot at the Sportsground.
Meanwhile, Keane’s (inset) arrival in Galway has been delayed by the continued progress of the Chiefs, who will now meet the Crusaders in the Super Rugby semi-finals next weekend.
Connacht’s new coach is now expected at the Sportsground at the end of the first week of August.
Rugby chiefs had to step in yesterday to ensure there will be two Italian clubs in what is still expected to become the Pro14 next season.
But confirmation that two South African outfits, the Cheetahs and the Southern Kings, are joining the league was put on the back burner as Zebre informed the Italian Rugby Federation (FIR) they were withdrawing.
The minnows are reportedly in financial turmoil, with several players left unpaid.