Rugby News round-up: Leinster will officially unveil new outhalf David Holwell this afternoon at a media briefing at Old Belvedere rugby club. The 29-year-old Kiwi is expected to pass this morning's medical as he lined out for his old club, the Wellington Lions, in the New Zealand NPC last weekend.
The arrival of a player of Holwell's calibre may finally solve the problem outhalf position in Leinster rugby. Despite having some decent players there in recent years, namely Nathan Spooner and Emmett Farrell, injury has also played a significant role.
Christian Warner and Felipe Contepomi have at times acquitted themselves well in the position but both appear more suited to the number 12 play-making role. Also, neither is an international-class kicker. Recently, former Terenure schoolboy and Ireland under-21 Dave McAllister has taken on the role but whether he is ready to lead Europe's best back line is debatable.
Holwell's ability as a kicker is unquestioned. Last weekend he nailed nine from 10 shots at goal in a man-of-the-match display, to leave the Lions top of the NPC ladder. Also, he has captained the Lions on numerous occasions.
The only worrying aspect of the Holwell signing is that in the previous two seasons he has been ruled out through injury for significant periods. An early release was secured from Wellington so the player could qualify for today's European Cup squad deadline - the 34 players will also be announced later today.
Munster were also busy strengthening their squad before the European deadline by signing former Ireland under-21 winger Paul Devlin. Devlin, who has played rugby league with Widnes, has joined on a three-year deal.
"It is a bit of a punt but he is Irish qualified and like all league players he's very professional in his approach and has a good work ethic," said Munster coach Alan Gaffney. "Of course it will take time for him to be re-educated into the 15-man game but he is still only a boy and anyone who is rated by (Widnes coach) Graham Steadman is good enough for me."
