Connacht hoping Sharks bite Quins

CONNACHT began the week with a drubbing by Sale Sharks but will end it cheering them on, as they could strengthen their squad for next season if the Sharks relegate Harlequins tomorrow.

Victory for Sale at The Stoop will send Harlequins out of the Zurich Premiership and that could pave the way for Connacht to snap up several of their players.

Most players in the Premiership have a get-out clause in their contracts if the club is relegated, and Harlequins are laden with Irish players. While Andy Dunne is set to join Bath, Connacht are considering bids for their former full-back Gavin Duffy, out-half Jeremy Staunton, winger Simon Keogh and centre Mel Deane. Connacht prop Peter Bracken, who is due to join Quins, may not sign if Quins go down.