Since Connacht's rise from the ashes during the late 2000s, one of the many pleasing aspects - alongside silverware, support and a new stadium - has been the rise in homegrown talent.
Players such as Denis Buckley, the Murray brothers, Jack Carty, Robbie Henshaw and Tiernan O'Halloran have all starred for the province.
The latest talent off he conveyor belt includes Cathal Forde, Hugh Gavin and Matthew Devine.
The latter has excelled with each step up in level: he starred for the Ireland U20s in 2022, scored two tries in just his second URC start, and was a standout for the Emerging Ireland in 2024.
However, this form and constant praise from the Connacht faithful has not translated into gametime.
He had just three starts last season in 14 appearances, and has just two this season in eight appearances.
It was then reported by Gerry Thornley of the Irish Times over the weekend that he will be moving to Ulster next season in search of more minutes.
Connacht, despite having the weakest depth of the four provinces, are the strongest in Ireland at scrum-half, with internationals Caolin Blade and Ben Murphy in their ranks as well.
Nonetheless, the wants and needs of the talented Devine should have been prioritised, and fans are blaming the hierarchy for his departure.
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26th January 2026
03:22pm GMT
