Anthony Foley, the Ireland and Shannon flanker, is contemplating joining English side Coventry for the coming season, but his club say he has not yet signed a contract. Foley, who marked his international debut against England with a try in the 1995 Five Nations Championship, was set to captain Shannon this season, taking over from Conor McDermott.

Foley was disappointed when he wasn't offered an IRFU contract this year and as a professional player is looking at a career in England despite Coventry's division two status. Coventry missed out on promotion last season when they were beaten by London Irish in a play-off series.

Foley will decide over the next few days on the basis of what is best for his career at club, provincial and, most importantly, international level. His trip to New Zealand and Western Samoa on the recent Development tour was marred by injury and Shannon believe that he under-performed as a result.

If Foley decides to join Coventry he will still have the opportunity of proving his worth to the Irish selectors when he lines out for Munster in the forthcoming European Cup. Munster will play Bourgoin, Cardiff and Harlequins.

The Irish Universities had a surprisingly easy 52-7 win over Queensland University at Brisbane yesterday in the third match of their tour.

The Irish led by 19-0 at half-time thanks to tries by skipper Robin Morrow, Alastair Clarke and Gordon Cantwell, with John O'Mahony adding two conversions. The Irish Universities also dominated the second half.

New Zealand will delay naming their team for Saturday's Bledisloe Cup against Australia in Melbourne until captain Sean Fitzpatrick has decided on his fitness."I've got a few loose bones in there that are irritating the knee - a bit of wear and tear - but I've got to wait and see how it settles down," he said.