Rugby: Incoming Connacht coach Pat Lam will join the province early to work with Eric Elwood ahead of taking sole charge next season. The 44-year-old will arrive in Galway in April before taking full control of team affairs on June 1st.

He will work alongside Elwood for the last three games of the season.

"Pat's early arrival will ensure that there is an opportunity for him to work alongside Eric and the coaching staff, get to know the players and facilitate an effective handover and transition,” chief executive Tom Sears said today.

“It will also mean that he can begin planning the crucial pre-season period and make the best possible start next season. Already Pat is being involved in discussions regarding player recruitment and planning for next season and beyond and we are making good progress on that front.”

Lam said he is “delighted" with the plan, that will allow him “spend some time with Eric, the coaching staff and the players before the season finishes before the season finishes and (we) start looking ahead to next season."

Sears insisted the move had the approval of Elwood.

"It's important to note that Eric is fully supportive of Pat's early arrival and looking forward to working with him."