Rugby: McCartney signs with Connacht

Tom McCartney. Photo / Getty Images

Blues hooker Tom McCartney has signed a three-year deal with Irish Pro12 side Connacht and will join his former Auckland and Blues coach Pat Lam in Galway at the conclusion of the ITM Cup.

McCartney, 28, has been a consistent performer for the Blues since making his Super Rugby debut in 2008, going on to earn 64 caps for the franchise. He also has the ability to play prop.

"I've loved being at the Blues, it's been my life for the last seven years but your career doesn't last forever and there are other things in my life I'd like to do,'' McCartney said.

"I think now is a good time to reassess and start setting some new goals. A little bit of travel is something I've always wanted to do and it was a great opportunity that Pat [Lam] presented me with.''