Bernard Jackman optimistic for future of young Connacht squad

Bernard Jackman believes Connacht have every right to be optimistic about their upcoming season after a disappointing return in 2023/24.

Despite four wins in their opening five games to start last season, the province flamed out in the second half of the campaign, falling all the way back to 11th place in the BKT United Rugby Championship.

Pete Wilkins' side have also had to make cuts to their playing budget, with experienced players like Tom Farrell, Tom Daly, Gavin Thornbury and Jarrad Butler released, while full-back Tiernan O’Halloran retired in the summer.

And despite the province picking from an inexperienced squad, Jackman believes the lack of Champions Cup rugby will allow them to prioritise their URC form for longer over the course of the season.

"I don't think they have the depth, and there is that transition from the academy lads to become as capable as the Tom Farrells, the Tom Dalys," Jackman told the RTÉ Rugby podcast.

"I think the Challenge Cup for them this year is a bit of a gift. It will allow them to rotate a little bit more, less eyes on them.

"Realistically I don’t think they will win a Challenge Cup, but it may help them get more URC points.

"I felt last year for example, a heavy defeat at home to Bordeaux, the knock to the confidence, the effect on the bodies, probably cost them a point or two in the URC in the weeks that followed.

"This year they can get confidence coming out of the Challenge Cup, but more importantly be able to rotate a bit and be fresher, and maybe take advantage of the teams who have had big Champions Cup games, and get a scalp or a point that they maybe would not have got."

The province have a tough start to the campaign with a trip to Munster on Saturday (5.30pm, live on RTÉ2 and RTÉ