New contract for Connacht centre Cathal Forde

Connacht centre Cathal Forde has confirmed a new contract with the province, which will keep him at the Dexcom Stadium until the summer of 2026.

The 22-year-old has enjoyed a breakthrough season for the Pete Wilkins side, starting in nine of their 11 games so far this season in the BKT United Rugby Championship, scoring two tries.

The former Ireland Under-20 international, who made his debut for the province as an out-half in 2022, has looked at home in midfield this season, starting mainly as an inside centre, but also moving into the 13 shirt when Bundee Aki has been available to the province.

"I am delighted to sign a two-year contract and extend my stay at my home province," said Forde, who gained his rugby education at Corinthians and Coláiste Iognáid.

"I feel like there's so much more to come with my game and I know being at Connacht will help develop that.

"We've got a really good group of players here and I want to play my part in helping this club succeed."

The Galway native played all five games for Ireland in their U20 Six Nations campaign in 2021, while he's also had his card marked by the Irish senior coaches, after being included on the Emerging Ireland tour of South Africa in 2022.

"Cathal is an exciting talent and excellent young professional, and I am delighted he has committed to Connacht Rugby for another two seasons," Connacht head coach Pete Wilkins said.

"As a local lad and academy graduate, he is a great example of the type of player and person that the club and supporters are so proud to be associated with.

"He has thrived with the first team opportunities he has been given so far and we are all excited by what he can achieve in the season to come."

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