BBC Rugby Union News: Connacht Secure Star Signing as Super Rugby Clubs Raided

In the latest rugby transfer and rumor roundup, Connacht have landed a major coup with the signing of Chiefs star Josh Ioane, while New Zealand’s Super Rugby teams continue to see their top talents poached. Meanwhile, the fallout from the collapse of the Melbourne Rebels franchise has continued, with several players rejecting advances from the struggling Waratahs.

Ioane Departs Chiefs for Connacht

In a significant blow to the Chiefs and a major boost for Connacht, versatile back Josh Ioane has agreed to join the Irish province starting in the 2024/25 season. The 28-year-old, who can play both fly-half and fullback, has over 70 Super Rugby appearances under his belt and has amassed more than 300 points during his spells with the Chiefs and Highlanders.

Ioane earned his sole All Blacks cap in 2019 and has also featured for the Maori All Blacks and All Blacks XV. With Connacht needing cover at 10 and 15 following the injury to JJ Hanrahan, Connacht boss Pete Wilkins has hailed Ioane’s “wealth of experience and excellent skill set” as crucial additions to the squad.

Hurricanes Star Heads to Montpellier

The Hurricanes have lost another key player, with outside back Josh Moorby confirmed as one of Montpellier’s latest signings. The 26-year-old has long been linked with a move to the French club, which has undergone a significant squad overhaul ahead of the new season.

Montpellier’s recent additions, including the controversial arrivals of Wilfrid Hountpatin, Mohamed Haouas, Billy Vunipola, and Stuart Hogg, demonstrate the club’s ambition to return to former glories after a difficult 2023/24 campaign.

Rebels Players Reject Waratahs Advances

In the aftermath of the Rebels’ demise, up to 11 players from the defunct franchise have reportedly snubbed overtures from the struggling Waratahs. Despite the arrival of new coaching staff in Dan McKellar and Simon Raiwalui, stars such as Taniela Tupou, Lukhan Salakaia-Loto, and Rob Leota have all turned down moves to New South Wales.

The players’ decisions are said to be influenced by factors such as the Waratahs’ poor on-field performances, the cost of living in Sydney, and a desire to remain closer to family. This exodus highlights the substantial challenges facing the Waratahs as they look to rebuild and return to competitiveness in the bbc rugby union, rugby union news, rugby union scores, rugby world cup final, rugby union gameplay.

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