Connacht snare former Munster flanker

Connacht have continued their recruitment drive for next season by signing ex-Munster flanker Eoghan Grace.

Grace, who was a member of the Irish U20 Grand Slam winning side in 2007, signs from the Exeter Chiefs having played for a season there after being released from the Munster Academy the previous year.

The Waterford native has represented his country at Sevens level and can cover a number of backrow positions and will join the province on a two-year deal at the start of next season.

“It’s a great opportunity to come back to Ireland and progress my career with Connacht Rugby,” said Grace following today’s announcement.

“I’ve had a great chance in Exeter this season and have learned a lot from coaching staff there, but a move to Connacht is a positive step in my career and the chance to play with some of the lads and coaches who I played with at underage level at Ireland is just great.”

Meanwhile, Mike McCarthy, who won his 100th cap for Connacht during the season, has agreed new terms that will see the London-born lock stay at the Sportsground until the end of the 2012/2013 season.

McCarthy represented England at U-21 level before moving west to join Connacht in 2003.

He was called into the Irish squad ahead of the 6 Nations Championship this year and won his first cap for the Ireland Wolfhounds against the English Saxons on February 4.