Ian Madigan is leaving Leinster for Bordeaux Bègles

Sadly, if not predictably, the speculation has turned out to be true: Irish international out-half Ian Madigan has decided to continue his career outside of Ireland.

With the return of Johnny Sexton to the Leinster fold, Madigan has seen his playing time at out-half dramatically reduced this season. It had seemed inevitable, as a result, that at 26, and with his contract due to expire, he would seek to find a new rugby home, where he would be first choice. The hope is that he has found it with Bordeaux Bègles. There is undoubtedly a financial incentive involved in going to France, where wages at theta level are considerably higher than in Ireland. However, to suggest that the move is about anything other than playing-time would be unfair to Madigan.

Madigan spoke to leinsterrugby.ie: "While this was a very difficult decision for me to make, leaving the club that I have represented my whole professional life, I feel that the timing is right and it is a challenge that I'm looking forward to."

To which one can only add 'Good luck'. See one of the many tries Madigan has scores for Leinster below.