Sale Sharks hooker Tadgh McElroy has signed a new contract to stay at the club for the 2025/26 season.
The 27-year-old, who has played for clubs including Saracens, Leinster, Connacht and Ulster during his career, joined Sharks in October on a short-term deal until the end of the 24/25 season as injury cover.
He made his debut against Bath in round six of the Premiership and went on to feature in 24 games, making 11 starts and winning player of the match in the crucial round 17 win against Bristol Bears.
Tadgh said: “From my first day at the club, the players, coaches and supporters have been absolutely class. I’ve had loads of messages on social media from fans and everyone has made me feel really welcome. You can feel what rugby means to people here.
“I think this club is the perfect place for me to keep developing my game. I want to work on my set-piece and my defence and Byron and the rest of the coaches at Sale have been brilliant to work with.
“I also believe that the only way to grow and be the best you can be is to make sure you’re never comfortable, and to keep challenging yourself against the best. We’ve got a world-class group of hookers at Sale and I can learn so much from them all.
“It’s a huge privilege to do what we do and I can’t wait to get going again next season.”
Sharks Director of Rugby Alex Sanderson said: “I’ve known Tadgh for a long time and the guy is as tough as nails and the ultimate professional.
“He does everything he can to maximise his physical performance, and he prepares so hard so that when he has the chance to come in, he’s always ready.
“We wouldn’t have finished where we did last season if it wasn’t for Tadgh coming in and I’m so happy we’ve been able to keep him here.”
