Bristol confirm Harry Byrne signing

Bristol Bears have confirmed the signing of Ireland international fly half Harry Byrne on a three-month loan deal from Leinster as injury cover for AJ MacGinty.

The 25-year-old, who has 75 caps for Leinster and four caps for Ireland, featured in the 2024 Guinness Six Nations and joins Pat Lam’s squad with immediate effect.

Byrne has only made four appearances for Leinster in the United Rugby Championship this season, totalling 51 minutes, so he needs game time, while the Bears are strapped for options at 10.

Director of Rugby, Pat Lam, said: “Following the four-month injury to AJ MacGinty and the season-ending injury to Max Malins, it was important for us to bring in some additional cover at fly half, alongside our Academy player Sam Worsley, who is the last remaining specialist 10 in our squad.

“Harry is a quality international player who is very experienced at domestic and European level, representing one of the top clubs in world rugby. His style of play is well suited to the Bears Way, and I would like to thank Leo (Cullen) and Leinster Rugby for allowing Harry to join us.

“When I spoke to him, he was excited to come and play for the Bears and his experience will be valuable on and off the field as we head into a busy period of Premiership and Champions Cup rugby.”