CONNACHT CONFIDENTIAL: Men from the west are a joy to watch... and with canny coach Lancaster's know-how, these are the ingredients which make them primed for silverware once more

The second year of Stuart Lancaster’s tenure at Connacht promises intrigue. Securing the English coach was a significant achievement, and he made a substantial impact in his first season, mirroring his success at Leinster.

Connacht finished last season strongly, overcoming an early deficit of seven losses in their first nine URC games to win eight of their final nine league matches. This surge secured them a playoff spot and a return to Champions Cup rugby.

Under Lancaster, Connacht has re-embraced the fast-paced, all-court style of play characteristic of the Pat Lam and Andy Friend eras. They are compelling to watch.

Promising midfielder Harry West and versatile winger Shane Jennings emerged as standout players, both progressing through the academy system.

While losing talented scrum-half Matthew Devine to Ulster was a setback, Connacht retains depth in that position with Ben Murphy, Caolin Blade, and Colm Reilly.

Several Connacht players earned international recognition under Andy Farrell, with Darragh Murray, Sam Illo, Billy Bohan, and Sean Jansen making Test debuts. Jansen, in particular, has become a crucial player for the developing side.

Cian Prendergast continues to lead, and Bundee Aki, likely in his final season with Connacht, is expected to perform strongly.

High expectations surround young tighthead prop Fiachra Barrett. Hugh Gavin and Byron Ralston are nearing fitness and will strengthen the midfield. The backline, featuring Josh Ioane, Sam Gilbert, and Shayne Bolton, has been potent.

The return of Mack Hansen from a year-long foot injury is a major boost. The Ireland star, who has scored 15 tries in 30 appearances for his country, will feel like a new signing.

One to Watch: Shamus Hurley-Langton has proven to be an astute acquisition. The resilient flanker, who arrived from Manawatu in 2022, quickly became a fan favourite. He will be eligible to represent Ireland in 2027 through residency. His physicality and partnership with Prendergast and Jansen create a dynamic backrow.

Who Needs a Big Season? Bundee Aki, now 36, is preparing for his 12th season and likely his last in Ireland before the World Cup in Australia. A talisman for Connacht, he was key to their 2016 Pro12 win. While no longer at his absolute peak and facing competition from emerging centres like Cathal Forde, Hugh Gavin, and John Devine, Aki aims for a strong final season.

Transfer Activity: Lancaster has attracted significant talent from Leinster. Ciaran Frawley’s move is a strong statement. Given limited opportunities at fly-half with Leinster, Frawley aims to establish himself in Galway. His running game and offloading can complement Connacht's attacking backline.

Will Connors, another Leinster player, also seeks a fresh start. Once a favored option for Andy Farrell, a series of serious knee injuries stalled his international career. His chop tackling is a notable asset, adding depth to the backrow alongside Prendergast, Jansen, Paul Boyle, and Sean O’Brien.

Jerry Cahir from Leinster and South African loosehead Francois van Wyk have bolstered the front row. Former England prop Trevor Woodman joins as scrum coach, highlighting Lancaster’s effective recruitment.

Prediction: Connacht faces challenging Champions Cup fixtures against Saracens and Toulouse at home, and Exeter and La Rochelle away. Their high-octane attack can challenge any team on their day, and they will relish the European experience.

While Lancaster has strengthened the squad, Connacht may lack the depth to compete for multiple trophies simultaneously, likely prioritizing the URC.

With a stable squad and coaching team, they can build momentum from the start of the season, opening against the Stormers. A strong showing against the South African side would set a positive tone for subsequent matches.

The province now boasts a forward pack with Test-calibre players to complement a backline that rivals any in the URC. If Frawley integrates well, Connacht could be a significant contender, making them dark horses for the title.

Ins and Outs:

In: Francois van Wyk (Bath), Jerry Cahir (Leinster), Will Connors (Leinster), Ciaran Frawley (Leinster), Tom Connolly (Old Belvedere)

Out: Jack Carty (Retirement), Jack Aungier (Munster), Joe Joyce (Gloucester), Matthew Devine (Ulster), Chay Mullins (Ulster). Denis Buckley, Temi Lasisi, Oisin Dowling, Oisin McCormak, David Hawkshaw (all released).