Ciarán Frawley is reportedly set to leave Leinster after nine seasons, and join up with interpro rivals Connacht ahead of the 2026-27 URC campaign. The 28-year-old utility back will reunite with Stuart Lancaster, who coached him for six seasons at Leinster.
The move appears driven by Frawley’s ambition to play more regularly at fly half, and push for inclusion in the Ireland squad. Despite Ross Byrne’s departure to Gloucester in the Summer, Frawley has remained third-choice out-half behind Sam Prendergast and Harry Byrne. However, his versatility has seen him start at inside centre, fullback, and even outside centre this season for the Dubliners.
The move was confirmed on the Rugby Weekly Podcast, where it was noted that Connacht plan to use Frawley mainly at outhalf, where he hopes to stake a stronger claim for Ireland selection. His move west promises more regular game time, renewed international ambitions, and an opportunity to bring his experience, versatility, and class to a team eager to challenge in the URC.
Frawley’s international career currently includes nine caps for Ireland, eight off which have come off the . His sole start saw him take up the fullback mantle in the 2024 Six Nations win over Wales, where he marked the occassion with a try. Frawley’s big break onto the Test match scene was in the Summer of 2024, when he slotted match-winning drop goals in Ireland’s second Test win over South Africa.
A product of Skerries RFC and Skerries Community College, Frawley made his Leinster debut in February 2018 and quickly impressed with a man-of-the-match performance against the Southern Kings. He made his European debut against Northampton Saints in December 2019 and has since featured regularly, albeit without locking down a permanent starting spot for Leo Cullen’s side.
Connacht will gain a player already familiar with Stuart Lancaster’s coaching style, easing his transition while allowing him to compete primarily at fly half, with fellow countryman Cathal Forde and Jack Carty, along with former All Black Josh Ioane for company in the number 10 ranks.
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