Matthew Devine: Connacht scrum-half to join Ulster in the summer

Connacht scrum-half Matthew Devine will make the switch to Ulster at the end of the current season.

The 23-year-old will arrive on a one-year contract and reunites with Ulster head coach Richie Murphy who he played under when Ireland U20s won the 2022 Six Nations Grand Slam

Devine, who also worked with Ulster assistant coach Mark Sexton during his spell with the western province, has scored three tries this season for Connacht after graduating from the province’s academy system.

“I’m delighted to sign with Ulster Rugby and can’t wait to make the move up north,” Devine said.

“It’s a brilliant opportunity for me to join a team who are making great strides forward and playing some of the most exciting, attacking rugby in the URC.

“Having worked with the coaching staff before with the U20s, I have a great relationship with them, and I feel their style suits my game. I’m looking forward to meeting my new teammates and the Ulster supporters.”

Devine will bolster Murphy’s options at scrum-half with Ulster Rugby general manager Rory Best delighted to secure the services of the Ballinasloe native.

“We feel we have secured one of the most talented young scrum-halves in Ireland, who has a strong desire to kick on in his career and develop with his high potential,”Best said.

“He will add strong competition to our scrum half positions moving forward.”