Big moves are shaking up the rugby world as Leinster's Luke McGrath gears up for a stint in France, while Argentine lock Tomás Lavanini is set to make waves back in the English Premiership. Meanwhile, Connacht waves goodbye to attack coach Rod Seib, and Sam Arnold re-commits to Newcastle for another thrilling season.
Leinster has officially announced that Luke McGrath, a seasoned scrum-half and a former Ireland international, will be departing the Irish province for French club Perpignan at the conclusion of this season. McGrath, who first donned the Leinster blue in 2012, has been a pivotal figure in the team, amassing 56 tries in 248 appearances—a record that places him fifth among Leinster's all-time try-scorers. "It’s the end of an era as Luke McGrath will leave Leinster this summer to join Perpignan," the club stated, adding a heartfelt,
“Thanks for everything…”
McGrath's future club is currently battling to stay in the Top 14, facing a relegation playoff as they sit 18 points from safety with only eight matches remaining.
On another front, Tomás Lavanini, the towering Argentine lock, is poised to leave the Highlanders without making a single appearance, heading to Sale Sharks in the Premiership. Lavanini’s robust international experience, including 86 caps for Argentina, and his prior stints in Leicester, Clermont, and Lyon, anticipate a strong addition to the Sharks' roster.
Connacht Rugby is set to see a significant change in its coaching staff as Rod Seib departs for an overseas opportunity at season's end. Seib, who joined from the Brumbies just a year ago, is leaving a mark with his high-standard coaching. "While we are disappointed that Rod has decided to depart Connacht, we fully respect his decision and are extremely grateful for the contribution he has made to the province this season," remarked Stuart Lancaster, expressing both regret and appreciation for Seib's impact.
Amidst these departures and signings, Sam Arnold has decided to extend his stay with Newcastle for another year. Since joining from Brive, Arnold has become integral to the team's dynamics, making 24 appearances so far. "I’ve loved my time here so far," Arnold shared, reflecting on his satisfaction and enthusiasm about the future with Newcastle.
In a landscape of exits and new beginnings, these players and coaches are set to embark on new journeys that will undoubtedly influence their teams and their careers in the seasons to come.
2,100 posts
Big moves are shaking up the rugby world as Leinster's Luke McGrath gears up for a stint in France, while Argentine lock Tomás Lavanini is set to make waves back in the English Premiership. Meanwhile, Connacht waves goodbye to attack coach Rod Seib, and Sam Arnold re-commits to Newcastle for another thrilling season.
Leinster has officially announced that Luke McGrath, a seasoned scrum-half and a former Ireland international, will be departing the Irish province for French club Perpignan at the conclusion of this season. McGrath, who first donned the Leinster blue in 2012, has been a pivotal figure in the team, amassing 56 tries in 248 appearances—a record that places him fifth among Leinster's all-time try-scorers. "It’s the end of an era as Luke McGrath will leave Leinster this summer to join Perpignan," the club stated, adding a heartfelt,
“Thanks for everything…”
McGrath's future club is currently battling to stay in the Top 14, facing a relegation playoff as they sit 18 points from safety with only eight matches remaining.On another front, Tomás Lavanini, the towering Argentine lock, is poised to leave the Highlanders without making a single appearance, heading to Sale Sharks in the Premiership. Lavanini’s robust international experience, including 86 caps for Argentina, and his prior stints in Leicester, Clermont, and Lyon, anticipate a strong addition to the Sharks' roster.
Connacht Rugby is set to see a significant change in its coaching staff as Rod Seib departs for an overseas opportunity at season's end. Seib, who joined from the Brumbies just a year ago, is leaving a mark with his high-standard coaching. "While we are disappointed that Rod has decided to depart Connacht, we fully respect his decision and are extremely grateful for the contribution he has made to the province this season," remarked Stuart Lancaster, expressing both regret and appreciation for Seib's impact.
Amidst these departures and signings, Sam Arnold has decided to extend his stay with Newcastle for another year. Since joining from Brive, Arnold has become integral to the team's dynamics, making 24 appearances so far. "I’ve loved my time here so far," Arnold shared, reflecting on his satisfaction and enthusiasm about the future with Newcastle.
In a landscape of exits and new beginnings, these players and coaches are set to embark on new journeys that will undoubtedly influence their teams and their careers in the seasons to come.