Ultan Dillane is set to leave Connacht at the end of the season.
The Western province confirmed his impending departure today.
The 28-year-old lock has told players and staff that he has signed for an overseas club, but the full details have yet to be revealed.
Having made his debut for the province in 2014, Dillane has played over 100 times for the westerners as well as winning 19 Ireland caps.
We can confirm Ultan Dillane will depart the club when his contract expires at the end of the season.
Thank you for your 10 years of dedication to the province Ultan, and best of luck with everything in the future 🤝🟢
Full statement: https://t.co/BoAW0qI6K7 pic.twitter.com/upbsTjIYEs— Connacht Rugby (@connachtrugby) December 21, 2021
"This has been one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever had to make, but ultimately I feel that the time has come for me to experience a new challenge in my career," Dillane said.
"I am forever grateful to all the coaches and wider staff at Connacht I’ve worked with these past 10 years. You have all helped make my dream of becoming a professional and international rugby player a reality.
"I’ve also been fortunate to play alongside some incredible players both for Connacht and Ireland, and I have made some friends for life."
Head coach Andy Friend said the Kerry native played a central role - and will continue to do so until the end of this campaign.
“Ultan has been a key part of Connacht Rugby right from his initial entry into our Academy almost 10 years ago and will remain a key figure for us until he finishes up at the end of this season.
"This has not been an easy decision for Ultan however he has been completely open, honest and respectful in how he has engaged with the club on this matter.
"Whilst it is disappointing for us that Ultan is moving on, we wish him all very best for the future and the next stage of his career.
"Thankfully, we are very fortunate at Connacht Rugby to have real strength and depth at lock and I look forward to seeing some of our other squad members step up into Ultan’s boots and go on to achieve National honours just like he has.”
Connacht play Ulster on St Stephen's Day in the United Rugby Championship, before hosting Munster on New Year's Day.
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