Former England star set for shock switch to Ireland under new eligibility rules
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Munster have landed a significant signing ahead of next season, securing Leicester Tigers centre Dan Kelly in a move that adds firepower to their midfield.
Find your local Greene King and settle in for the 2025 Six Nations!
England cap, but Irish roots
Despite earning a cap for England in 2021, the 23-year-old is set to become eligible for Andy Farrell's Ireland squadonce he makes the switch. Kelly previously represented Ireland U20s alongside Jack Crowley and Tom Ahern, helping them win the Triple Crown in 2020.
A rising star with a proven pedigree
Since making his Premiership debut at just 19, Kelly has gone on to make 88 appearances for Leicester, scoring 10 tries and playing a crucial role in their 2022 title-winning campaign.
Manchester-born, Irish-made
Born in Manchester, Kelly qualifies for Ireland through his grandparents. He came through the Sale Sharks Academybefore earning a scholarship at Loughborough University, where he made waves in National League rugby.
The next big thing for Ireland?
After missing out on the England squad last year due to injury, Kelly looks primed for a return to green as he embarks on the next chapter of his career with Munster.
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Bath Rugby Announce Four Major Signings for 2025/26 Season
Bath Rugby have confirmed four high-profile signings ahead of next season, strengthening their squad with international and domestic talent.
Santiago Carreras
The 26-year-old Argentine international has signed a three-year deal and will join Bath ahead of the 2025/26 season.
A versatile back capable of playing at full-back, fly-half, and wing, Carreras made his Test debut in 2019 and featured in Argentina's historic win over New Zealand in 2020. He has earned 53 caps, including appearances at the 2019 and 2023 World Cups.
Since joining Gloucester from Jaguares in 2020, Carreras has amassed 256 Premiership points, including 21 tries, and was named the club's Coaches' Player of the Season in 2022/23. Now, he is eager to make his mark at The Rec.
"I moved to the UK in 2020 in the middle of a pandemic, and I’m hugely grateful to be continuing my journey here," Carreras said. "Bath is in an exciting phase with world-class players and coaches, and I want to help the club win trophies."
Bernard van der Linde
The 24-year-old scrum-half arrives from the Bulls on a two-year deal, keeping him at Bath until 2027.
A product of Menlopark High School, van der Linde has spent six years with the Bulls, featuring in the Currie Cup, United Rugby Championship, and Champions Cup. Bath’s Head of Rugby, Johann van Graan, believes the South African has enormous potential.
"Bernard is a dynamic, physical nine with a huge love for the game," van Graan said. "I'm excited to see his growth at Bath over the next few years."
Van der Linde is relishing the opportunity: "It's always been rugby for me, ever since I was a kid playing in the back garden. I can't wait for my family to watch me in Bath colours."
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