Irish international scrum-half Kieran Marmion will join Bristol Bears from Connacht ahead of the 2023/24 Gallagher Premiership campaign.
The 31-year-old, who has 28 caps for his country, links back up with Pat Lam having won the Pro 12 title together in 2016. Marmion has made 222 appearances for Connacht during an 11-year spell at the province.
Marmion made his international debut against Argentina in 2014 and was Ireland’s starting scrum half when they edged out the All Blacks in Dublin in 2018.
Director of Rugby, Pat Lam, said: “Once Andy Uren had requested an early release, we began the search for a possible replacement – someone with experience who would be the right fit for our team.
“I’m really pleased to be able to bring in Kieran Marmion – an international scrum half with vast experience who will bring huge value to us on and off the field.
“Having worked closely with him in the past, I know he is exactly the perfect replacement to fill the void following the release of Andy to Benetton Treviso at the end of the season.”
Marmion added: “I’m really excited to have the opportunity to represent the Bristol Bears on and off the field.
“I’ve followed them closely over the last few years and I’m really looking forward to working with Pat again and being part of the exciting brand of rugby that the Bears look to play.”
FIVE OTHER PLAYERS LEAVING BRISTOL BEARS
#1. Semi Radradra to Lyon
Radradra, who joined the Bears from Bordeaux-Begles in July 2020, has made 46 appearances for the club, helping them to a maiden European title in October 2020 and a first-place finish in the Gallagher Premiership in 2021/22.
Director of Rugby, Pat Lam, said: “We’re very grateful to Semi for his dedication and commitment to the Bears during his time here. Semi was very instrumental in our Challenge Cup success in 2020 and in helping the team finish top of the Gallagher Premiership in the 2021-22 season.
“Semi is not just a world class talent but an outstanding team man. He has made a significant impact for our team on and off the field helping and inspiring a lot of our people, especially the younger players, showing them through his actions what being a true professional is all about. These qualities have enabled him to battle back from two serious knee injuries which will allow him to continue to have a positive impact for us in our run-in for the rest of the season.
“It has been a real pleasure to have him at the Bears and we all wish him and his family well for his next chapter.”
Radradra said: “I can’t thank the club enough for all they’ve done during my time here.
“It’s a fantastic club, with great supporters and I will miss it. I’m extremely motivated to finish the season strongly and put in some memorable performances, particularly at Ashton Gate.”
