Offaly's Dooley rejoins Leinster rugby for new season

Offaly's Peter Dooley has rejoined Leinster Rugby from Connacht ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.

The Birr native returns to Leinster for a second spell having made 104 appearances and scored five tries for the province to date.

The loosehead prop is a graduate of the Leinster Academy and made his debut for the province in October 2014 against Edinburgh.

The 31-year-old earned his 100th Leinster cap in a win over Benetton Rugby in March 2022 and will now be looking to add to his total as he dons the blue jersey once more.

Dooley said he feels like "coming home" following his provincial switch.

"I am thrilled to be returning to Leinster after four great years with Connacht. It feels like I am coming home and I can’t wait now to get started with pre-season and get back out onto the field at Laya Arena," Dooley said.

Speaking to leinsterrugby.ie on Friday, Head Coach Leo Cullen said Dooley has "unfinsihed business" with Leinster.

"I have had numerous conversations with Peter over the last number of months. It definitely feels like Peter has unfinished business with Leinster after having come through the Leinster pathway.

"We all believe that Peter has the ability to challenge at the top end of the game and we are delighted to have him back in our squad," Cullen stated.