Leinster prop Peter Dooley signs for Connacht

Connacht have continued their raid on neighbours Leinster with the signing of prop Peter Dooley.

The 27-year-old has agreed a move west for next season, after eight seasons at his native province.

The loosehead made his 100th appearance for Leinster in last Saturday's trouncing of Benetton in Treviso.

Having made his debut in 2014, the Offaly native has won four URC titles, while he also earned a first call-up to the Ireland squad last summer, training with the squad prior to their win against the USA in July.

However, Andrew Porter's switch across from tighthead to loose has seen Dooley's opportunities shrink, starting just one game and featuring six times off the bench this season.

"It has been a time of reflection and assessing where and how I would like to progress in the coming seasons and I feel that in order to kick on, I need to be playing rugby regularly and hopefully I will get that opportunity with Connacht Rugby from next season," Dooley said.

"I am still highly motivated to do well and to improve as a player and having that opportunity to challenge for selection on a more consistent basis with Andy Friend is what I need and I look forward to putting my best foot forward.

"Playing for Leinster Rugby has been brilliant but you only get one chance to make the most of your career in sport, and this is my chance."

Dooley follows Leinster teammate Josh Murphy in confirming a move to Connacht, while it's also believed that wing Adam Byrne will join the pair in swapping blue for green next season.

"We’re really pleased that Peter has chosen to continue his career with Connacht," said Connacht head coach Andy Friend.

"He has the type of profile we look for in a prop and comes with a wealth of experience as a Leinster