Leinster lose promising Irish lock to Welsh rivals

Tadhg Beirne didn't fancy playing the odd game for Leinster next season so he's packed up and headed to Wales.

The 24-year-old, who has represented Ireland at U20 and 7s, will join Scarlets for next season's Guinness PRO12 after securing a move away from his home province. Beirne made four appearances for Leinster last season but did not feature in the closing stages of the season, despite injuries to senior players. It will come as a disappointment for Leinster fans to see a homegrown player lost to a PRO12 rival. Former Munster lock Ian Nagle has been brought in to boost the second row options but this may be an indication that current Ireland U20 captain James Ryan will be fast-tracked to the senior team. Scarlets general manager of rugby, Jon Daniels is delighted with the capture of the Kildare native. He said:

"Tadhg is an exciting young talent who we hope will continue to develop and progress here at the Scarlets. He will add strength in depth to the back 5 of the pack. "He has made a brave move to leave Ireland to pursue a new challenge and further his rugby career but he's an intelligent well rounded young man who I'm sure will thrive in our environment."

In recent seasons, Leinster lost Mick Kearney to Connacht but he returned after picking up vital game time. As for Beirne, he is 'excited by the club's ambition and can't wait for the new season to start'.