Robbie Henshaw confirms Connacht exit

The news Connacht Rugby dreaded was confirmed yesterday as Ireland centre Robbie Henshaw’s decision to leave his native province was announced.

The announcement paves the way for the 22-year-old who won his 17th Ireland cap in Paris on Saturday and has become a first-choice Test regular since 2014 to join Leinster when his current contract expires this summer.

For now, though, Guinness Pro12 title contenders Connacht, currently joint top with Ulster, must come to terms with losing their most prized homegrown asset.