Connacht Reveal Marnitz Boshoff Replacement

Connacht Rugby yesterday confirmed that Marnitz Boshoff has been released from the remaining year of his contract on compassionate grounds.

Boshoff requested to return home to be closer to his family after the sudden and tragic passing of his father earlier this year. Having joined the squad last October, the out-half made his debut against the Cardiff Blues in November but injured his shoulder in his second appearance against Benetton Treviso.

The South African returned to the fold late in the season to make two further appearances and played his final game for Connacht away to Munster in May. Following Boschoff’s departure Connacht have announced today that they have signed Waratahs outhalf Andrew Deegan to replace him.

Deegan is a promising prospect who last year was drafted into the Waratahs development squad. The 22-year-old played for the Australian schoolboys in 2013 and was the Aussie outhalf at the World Rugby U-20 Championship in Italy.

Commenting on the new signing, Assistant Coach Nigel Carolan said:

“Andrew is a very highly-rated young player who has already gained a lot of experience in Australia. He has huge potential and we are delighted to welcome him to the province.”

Speaking of his move to Connacht, Deegan said:

“I am really excited to get the opportunity to join Connacht and have only heard great things about the club, the community, and how supportive the fans are. I am delighted to become a part of that and I hope I can add to the success Connacht have enjoyed in recent times”.