Aussie signs Leinster two-year deal

LEINSTER have signed Australian second row Adam Byrnes on a two-year deal.

The 6’7” Eastern Suburbs lock forward has an EU passport and will link up with Michael Cheika and his new team-mates next week.

Former Ireland schools and U-21 winger James Norton has also agreed a one-year deal with the province.

Coach Cheika said: “I am delighted to welcome Adam to Leinster. He was a member of the New South Wales Waratahs ‘A’ side and when he played for Eastern Suburbs he always impressed me when I was coaching Randwick. The rivalry between the two is like that between Leinster and Munster. So for me to bring him here shows how highly I rate him!

“Having watched a lot of video footage of James in recent weeks, I am also pleased to confirm he has re-signed for the coming season. At 24, he will bring pace and skill to the back-line and has a wealth of experience, having played representative rugby with Ireland Schools, Ireland U-21s and Connacht.”