Bristol step up rebuild with Ireland stand-off Madigan

BRISTOL have secured their second big-name signing ahead of next season with the capture of Ian Madigan.

The Ireland No.10, who follows in the footsteps of All Black flanker Steven Luatua, has agreed a threeyear deal after only a season in the Top14 with Bordeaux-Begles.

Madigan, 27, who has 31 Ireland caps, said: “The opportunity to come to England and prove myself here is one that I relish. Bristol Rugby has a clear vision for what they want to achieve and match my own ambitions.

Bristol head coach Mark Tainton said: “It’s been no secret we were seeking a world-class fly half and he fits that bill.”

Wasps confirmed that Kurtley Beale will return to Australia in May in a bid to secure 2019 World Cup selection.

He said: “I signed a oneyear deal to enable me to keep my options open and I believe to achieve my international rugby aspirations I need to be back home in Australia.”

The Dragons have made a major coup ahead of next season with the signing of full-back Zane Kirchner from Leinster.

The former Springbok will be replaced by Kiwi James Lowe who will join from the Chiefs.

Dragons head coach Kingsley Jones said: “In addition to his experience, he understands how to win having played a major part in Super Rugby, international rugby and the Guinness PRO12.”

Ulster might not have room for Springbok star Ruan Pienaar next season but uncapped South African prop Schalk van der Merwe, is on his way to Belfast while the Ospreys have given former Wales U20s centre Joe Thomas his first professional deal.

Bedford have brought in Jersey prop Sean McCarthy and Doncaster back rower Jarad Williams. Ben Adams, Will Carrick-Smith, Jordan Burns and Ollie Dodge have been given new deals.

Darlington MP hooker James Penman will play next season for Nottingham where Josh Poullet, Murray McConnell, Darryl Veenendaal and Shane Buckley all stay on. London Scottish fullback Peter Lydon is to join Ealing Trailfinders while Jersey have released assistant coach Alex Rae.