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Ireland Sevens Star Smith Joins Connacht

Andrew Smith is pictured in action for Ireland during the recent HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series leg in Sydney ©INPHO/Zach Franzen

Connacht Rugby have confirmed that Andrew Smith will join the province from the Ireland Sevens squad ahead of next season.

Smith joined the IRFU Sevens programme in 2021, having come through the Leinster Academy. In his 69 HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series matches with the team, Smith has scored 21 tries and was part of the squad that won bronze at the 2022 Rugby World Cup Sevens.

The 22-year-old winger has also been capped at Ireland Under-20 level, featuring in the 2020 Under-20 Six Nations squad and scoring two tries in three appearances.

He won an Energia All-Ireland League title with Clontarf in 2022 and went on to tour South Africa with the Emerging Ireland squad last October.

Commenting on the signing, Connacht head coach Pete Wilkins said: “Andrew is exactly the type of player that will excite the Connacht supporters, and he’ll complement the style of rugby that the province is known for.

“He’s still young but has a lot of experience under his belt on the Sevens circuit, and we’ve seen his 15s potential with Leinster and Ireland Under-20s. I’m sure he’ll be a great addition for us.”

Smith added: “It has been an incredible experience being a part of the Irish Sevens team. I am proud of our achievements together and the opportunity to be a part of a special group of players.

I would like to thank all my family, team-mates and staff who have supported me on my journey so far, from school, club, Leinster and most recently Sevens.

“After speaking with Pete Wilkins and Tim Allnutt, the opportunity of joining Connacht was something incredibly exciting.

“I am looking forward to this next chapter in my career and continuing to learn and grow as a player and an individual.”