Ronan Kelleher: Leinster confirm another key deal as Ireland hooker re-signs while Dane Blacker to move from Scarlets to Dragons

Leinster have announced their second high-profile re-signing of the day after Ronan Kelleher put pen to paper on a fresh deal with the province.

The 25-year-old hooker has committed his future to the side as he celebrates a recent Six Nations Grand Slam playing for Ireland with a new Leinster contract.

Kelleher has struck up an outstanding partnership at hooker with team-mate Dan Sheehan in recent seasons and that is set to continue after Thursday’s news.

Joins James Lowe in re-signing

The international front-row, who came through Leinster‘s academy, made his senior debut in February 2019, against South African side the Southern Kings.

Solid form meant he subsequently went on to claim his first Ireland cap in the 2020 Six Nations, coming off the bench in their 19-12 victory against Scotland.

He follows Leinster team-mate James Lowe in agreeing a contract extension, while James Ryan and Josh van der Flier also agreed deals on Tuesday this week.

Kelleher has struggled with an injury for Leinster this term and will hope it does not affect his game time in the end-of-season run-in for the in-form province.

Following the 2022/23 season, the powerful yet mobile hooker will look to impress in Ireland’s World Cup warm-ups in the hope of making their final squad.

Dane Blacker moves to Dragons

Elsewhere in the URC, the Dragons have announced the signing of scrum-half Dane Blacker, who joins the region on a long-term contract from the Scarlets.

One of the most exciting talents in Welsh rugby, Blacker will make the switch to Rodney Parade this summer and be reunited with former boss Dai Flanagan.

The 24-year-old number nine was called up by Wales last year for the end-of-year internationals and been previously capped at U18s, U20s and Sevens level.

The dynamic back previously played for Dragons twice on loan during the 2017/18 season, scoring on debut against Ulster, with Flanagan a fan of the player.

“I’ve known Dane since he was 18-years-old and I’m really excited to bring him into our club next season,” said the coach.

“Dane is a hugely talented and driven young player, but also the right character for our environment. He has international aspirations with Wales that we want to help him achieve as a Dragon.

🚨 𝙒𝙀𝙇𝘾𝙊𝙈𝙀 𝘿𝘼𝙉𝙀 𝘽𝙇𝘼𝘾𝙆𝙀𝙍 💥

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— Dragons RFC (@dragonsrugby) April 13, 2023

“His arrival gives us real strength at scrum-half and a healthy competition for places next season. We’re looking forward to the impact we know he will make with us.”

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Blacker said: “I’m really excited by the opportunity at Dragons and, having spoken to Dai, I’m looking forward to being a part of the club’s vision for the future.

“In addition, I would like to say a huge thank you to everyone at Scarlets for all their support and backing throughout my time in West Wales, especially the fans who have been incredible during my time at the club.

“We have a few big games left and I’m looking forward to being a part of a strong finish to this season!”