Rugby: Adrian Flavin| Sam Jones| Hugh McMeniman

The London-born hooker joined Connacht in 2006, having come from London Irish where he played for nine years. Flavin was part of the Ireland side that won the U-19 World Cup in 1998. He then went on to play for Ireland U21’s in the 2000 World Cup and the 2001 Six Nations. He has caps for Ireland ‘A’ against England Saxons and Scotland A.

Flavin’s first game for Connacht in 2006 was away to Border Reivers, which the Irish province won by 29 points to 15. In 2010, he captained the Connacht side that defeated Samoa 26-22 at the Sportsground. He has made 138 appearances for Connacht and scored 12 tries. The 33-year-old said: “I’ve had a great 16 years in the pro game and I’m proud I played with two fantastic clubs within that period.”

Connacht play Edinburgh at Murrayfield on Friday.

Jones signs new deal with Wasps

FLANKER Sam Jones has become the latest of Wasps’ young stars to extend his stay at the club.

The club have announced a new “long-term” deal for the 21-year-old back-rower, who joins the likes of centre Elliot Daly, wing Christian Wade and England lock Joe Launchbury in committing to the Adams’ Park side. England Under-20 cap Jones has already made 50 appearances for Wasps, having been thrust into first-team action last season due to a crippling injury list.

He said: “I’ve been involved as a player with Wasps for ten years and I feel a real loyalty to the club. I’m excited about what the future holds for this squad.”

Director of rugby Dai Young, said: “I am convinced Sam will be a long-term regular first-team player with huge potential to develop at international level if he continues to progress.”

McMeniman sticks with Western Force

FORMER Wallabies lock Hugh McMeniman has signed a new two-year Super Rugby contract with the Perth-based Western Force.

The 29-year-old McMeniman, who played 21 tests for Australia – the last in 2009 – returned to the Super 15 this season after three years with Japanese club the Kubota Spears. He has started all seven of the Force’s matches this season.

McMeniman, who follows Force captain Matt Hodgson in re-signing for two years, said: “I’ve loved playing my rugby here with the Force and in Perth. I’ve enjoyed being part of the programme and being a part of this playing group.”

McMeniman has yet to sign a new contract with the Australian Rugby Union.