Connacht the right move for Cronin

The newly-capped Ireland hooker left high-flying Munster to join the Magners League strugglers a year-and-a-half ago and he hasn't looked back since.

Cronin quickly established himself as first-choice at the Sportsground and has gone on to secure Ireland A and senior honours, with his full international debut coming against Fiji during the recent autumn Tests.

And while some critics originally suggested that the move to Galway would be a backward step, Cronin believes it has been absolutely crucial to his continued development.

"It is a move which has worked for me," Cronin told the Irish Independent.

"The most important thing for me was getting game time. That is what has really helped me improve."

Cronin signed a one-year extension to his contract earlier this week, re-iterating the positive impact that being a Connacht player has had on his career to date.

And the former Shannon star encouraged others to follow suit, particularly younger players looking to kick on from promising beginnings.

"My game has developed and I'm enjoying it," added Cronin.

"I have learned a lot since moving to Galway and it is a move I would encourage other players to make."

Those sentiments are echoed by Connacht head coach Michael Bradley, who believes Cronin has made impressive strides since joining the club.

Bradley has seen his star pupil mature as a player and a person and, with Cronin quick to praise Connacht for helping him grow, the coach hopes the province will have a similar impact on other young talent in future years.

"Sean has become a front-line player for us, has gone on tour with Irish teams, and has been capped at full international level," said Bradley.

"Sean felt he could make progress coming here and he has taken the opportunity with both hands.

"I admire people who decide to make that change and take their chance.

"Connacht can do a lot for players who are getting frustrated in the other provinces."