Promising prop Thomas Clarkson among 4 players rewarded with new contracts by Leinster

Updated at 18.10

LEINSTER HAVE MADE a front-row investment for the future by handing a first senior contract to academy prop Thomas Clarkson, one of four new deals announced by the province today.

The 21-year-old tighthead, who made his debut against Ulster last August, played nine times in the Guinness Pro14 this season.

His first start came in the win away to the Dragons in February, with another following in last month’s victory at Zebre.

Clarkson was a member of the Ireland U20 team that won a Six Nations Grand Slam in 2019. He also helped Noel McNamara’s side clinch a Triple Crown in last year’s championship before it was cut short by Covid-19.

New deals for Dave Kearney, Ross Molony, and James Tracy have also been confirmed.

30-year-old hooker Tracy is rewarded, having made 126 appearances to date for Leinster since his debut against Ospreys in 2012.

26-year-old second-row Molony has 113 appearances for the province since lining out for the first time in 2015.

And 31-year-old winger Kearney has also extended his stay with Leo Cullen’s side, having made his debut in 2009, featuring 166 times in total.