Cannon joins Pro12 champs Connacht

The Premiership side Wasps have agreed on terms that free up the 28-year-old Irish qualified lock to join Connacht for the 2016/17 season.

The towering lock who was born in England has represented Wasps for six seasons, since joining as a 21-year-old after three years with Northampton Saints. During his time with Saints, he was also part of England’s 2008 Under-20 Grand Slam winning side.

Cannon has been included in Connacht Rugby’s European Champions Cup squad that was registered last week. He has arrived in Galway and joined up with his new teammates at the Sportsground.

Commenting on the latest recruit, Connacht Rugby CEO Willie Ruane said: "James [Cannon] is a player that we have been interested in for some time now so we’re excited to be welcoming him to the Sportsground and to Connacht Rugby,"

Head coach Pat Lam added: "James [Cannon] has been part of a competitive mix of second-row players at Wasps but has shown his talent when given the chance. He brings a vast amount of experience from playing in both the Premiership and European Champions Cup and will greatly boost our second-row options. We’re all looking forward to welcoming him to Connacht Rugby,"

Cannon said: "I’m very excited about the new challenge in Connacht and look forward to working hard to try to get more first team opportunities and to play my part within the squad,"

Source: @connachtrugby