Rugby Digest/NEW RECRUITS: Connacht have recruited two of Leinster's most promising players in John Hearty and David Gannon. Both were members of the Irish under-21 team that reached last year's World Cup final in Scotland, under the captaincy of Gannon, reports Gavin Cummiskey.

The wealth of centre's and locks at Leinster played a part in the Blackrock College duo switching as they will both be guaranteed initial game time under former under-21 coach Michael Bradley.

"He is a player we have had our eye on for some time, so it is good that the way is now clear for him to come and play for Connacht," said Connacht CEO Gerry Kelly on Hearty, who can be used at centre or wing.

"David Gannon has yet to put pen to paper but we hope to finalise that soon. Both of course are highly regarded by Michael Bradley," he added.

The province has released Justin Meagher and Niall O'Brien, who were both signed on development contracts.

Connacht's search for native players will continue but NEC Harlequins trio Gavin Duffy, Jeremy Staunton and Simon Keogh may now not be available after the club announced Dean Richards as the director of rugby for next season.

"There is huge potential here and I am here to realise that potential. I am looking to do something here at Quins. Without a doubt I think people will expect success. My first objective is to get into the Premiership but it's going to be a hard year. The situation most of the players find themselves in will be alien," Richards said.

SPENCER SIGNS: The former All Blacks outhalf Carlos Spencer has signed a three-deal with English club Northampton, the New Zealand Rugby Union announced yesterday.

The 29-year-old is currently playing for Auckland in the Super 12 but will leave New Zealand for Northampton next season, effectively ending his international playing career.

Spencer has played 35 Tests for the All Blacks, scoring 291 points, making him New Zealand's third highest point scorer behind Andrew Mehrtens and Grant Fox.

Spencer was New Zealand's first-choice outhalf up until last season but has since slipped down the pecking order, losing his spot at Auckland to Tasesa Lavea and the All Blacks number 10 shirt to Dan Carter.

All Blacks coach Graham Henry paid tribute to Spencer's contribution to the game in New Zealand, applauding his unorthodox and flamboyant style of play.

"Carlos is a hugely gifted player and while I am happy for him personally to be taking up a new opportunity in his career, it is also sad to see him go," Henry said. "He should reflect with a great deal of pride on his contribution to the game in this country."

RUGBY LEAGUE: The BBC will make rugby league history next month when they show live coverage of Toulouse's Powergen Challenge Cup quarter-final with Widnes Vikings.

BBC's Sunday Grandstand will feature both the tie at Stade de Minimes and the repeat of last year's final between holders St Helen's and Wigan at Knowsley Road on Sunday, June 26th.