Connacht number 8 Colm Rigney became the latest Irish player to quit these shores when he opted to join Leeds Tykes on a two year contract. It's a move that could see the 25 year old playing Heineken Cup rugby next season if results in the Parker Pen Challenge Cup go his new club's way. If Bath were to win their Challenge Cup final clash with Wasps on 25th May, they would then take the fifth English Heineken Cup qualification place. However, Wasps have already qualified through the league, so if they win the Parker Pen Cup, the fifth entry place will be awarded to the Premiership's fifth-placed team - Leeds Tykes.

Commenting on the signing Director of Rugby Phil Davies said, " Colm is highly rated over in Ireland and several Zurich Premiership and French clubs were keen to sign him so I am pleased that he has agreed to join in the face of that competition. He is a rugged back rower and he will bring a real presence to our pack for next season."

Rigney becomes the 8th Irish based player to leave for foreign climes, following on from the news that Leinster Lions trio Andy Dunne, Simon Keogh and Ben Willis are all bound for Harlequins who had already secured the services of Gavin Duffy (Connacht).

Leeds Tykes have also signed Bristol's international wing/centre, Phil Christophers. The 22 year old has, like Rigney, signed a two year contract with the Yorkshire club..