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Connacht Rugby are delighted to announce that scrum-halves Caolin Blade and Ben Murphy have both signed contract extensions for the 2026/27 season.
Caolin Blade is a product of Monivea RFC and has been a key member of the squad since his senior debut in 2014. He has amassed 220 appearances, placing him 9th in Connacht’s all-time appearance list, and his 54 tries puts him in 2nd place behind Matt Healy as the club’s all-time try scorer.
On the international front the 31-year old has earned 4 international appearances, which included a vital role off the bench to help Ireland beat South Africa during the 2024 Summer Tour. Next season will be his 14th at the club, solidifying his role as an all-time Connacht great.
Meanwhile Ben Murphy joined Connacht in 2024 and made an immediate impact in the province. His 9 tries in 16 appearances saw him named the club’s Player of the Year for the 2024/25 season, and he was duly rewarded with his senior Ireland debut against Georgia in last year’s summer internationals. He followed that up with his first Irish try against Portugal a week later.
Head coach Stuart Lancaster says:
“Retaining Caolin and Ben is a significant step in our squad planning for next season. Caolin’s journey from the Connacht Academy, to over 200 caps for his home province, is a testament to his consistency and importance. His experience is also a key asset as we continue to shape the squad into the future. Ben meanwhile is an another example of a player who has benefitted from a move to Connacht and took his playing opportunities with both hands. Securing two players of their calibre in a key position for next season is a great boost for the club”.
