Four senior players commit to Connacht for 2017/18

Connacht Rugby and the IRFU have announced that JP Cooney, Shane Delahunt, Steve Crosbie and Tom Farrell have all signed new contracts for the 2017/18 season.

27-year-old prop Cooney has played 22 games for the province this season and made his 50^th appearance against Munster at Thomond Park earlier this month.

Delahunt made 11 appearances in his debut season as a member of the senior squad, as 24-year-old outhalf Crosbie, who can also play in midfield, joined Connacht in January of this year, following a short stint with Munster.

The province has further boosted its options at midfield with the contract extension of 23-year-old Farrell, who also joined the province in early 2017 and has made nine appearances since his arrival.

Commenting on the latest contract news, Connacht CEO Willie Ruane said:

“Our squad is taking shape for next season and we’re delighted with the level of retention in the senior ranks. To have continuity up front in the shape of JP and Shane is a great boost and we are excited by what Steve and Tom can add to the squad having only joined us earlier in the year.

“Recruitment remains ongoing as we look to finalise the makeup of our squad for next season.”