Leinster confirm Dave Kearney departure

Leinster have confirmed that Dave Kearney will depart the province at the end of the season.

The 33-year-old's next destination hasn't been confirmed, but the former Ireland international has been heavily linked with joining the Major League Rugby side Chicago Hounds, of whom he is is a part-owner.

Kearney has played 185 times for the province since his debut in May 2009 while only Denis Hickie, Gordon D'Arcy, Brian O'Driscoll and Shane Horgan have scored more than his 55 tries in blue.

The winger departs Leinster having played his part in two Heineken Champions Cup winning seasons, as well as winning six URC titles and a European Challenge Cup in 2013.

The Louth native also won 19 caps for Ireland between 2013 and 2019, winning a Six Nations title in 2014.

"As I reflect on my career, the overriding feeling I get is that of gratitude," Kearney said in a statement.

"Walking through the doors of Leinster rugby to join the academy in 2008, I never could have dreamt I'd still be here almost 15 years on. To have had such a long career playing for the team I grew up supporting, as well as representing my country has been a dream come true.

"It’s been an incredible journey, filled with some of the most special moments of my life, ones that I’ll cherish deeply. There have been plenty of challenges along the way, ups and downs, but I wouldn’t change a thing."

Kearney has scored three tries in 12 games in his final season for the province, with Saturday's URC semi-final against Munster likely to be his final appearance for Leinster.

It was reported in April that he is set to join the Chicago Hounds, along with his former Leinster teammate Adam Byrne, who is departing Connacht at the end of this season.

Kearney, along with his older brother