Connacht have signed versatile Australian back Mack Hansen from Super Rugby side, Brumbies.
The 23-year old can play in any position across the back-three, and can also operate as an out-half.
Hansen - whose mother hails from Cork, making him eligible for Ireland - has signed a two-year contract at the Sportsground.
Greeting Hansen's arrival, Connacht head coach Andy Friend said, "Securing the signing of Mack Hansen is a real coup for Connacht Rugby.
"I have been following his progress for a long time and he has all the attributes to become a really important player for us.
"As well as his playmaking abilities, he is a physically strong and tall player who can easily adapt to the demands of northern hemisphere rugby.
"His versatility and ability to play all across the back field as well as a number 10 is also a big plus for us. I’m looking forward to welcoming him to The Sportsground and integrating him into our playing squad over the summer."
Hansen represented Australia at the U20 World Championship in 2018, scoring three tries en route to a fifth place finish for the young Wallabies.
He's racked up some impressive stats in Super Rugby this season, making 11 clean breaks this season, putting him in 2nd place for most clean breaks by any player across both Super Rugby leagues. He also sits in the top 10 for most metres carried.
"I am delighted to be making this move and signing for Connacht Rugby," Hansen said.
"Obviously, I have strong family ties to Ireland, so that was an immediate positive for me, but after chatting to Andy I became really excited by both the brand of rugby that Connacht play, as well as the ambition of the club to succeed in the years ahead.
"I want to play my part in that, and I can’t wait to link up with the squad and get settled in the West of Ireland."
Pique defends Barcelona president despite Super League shambles
