Rugby:Former Scotland outhalf Dan Parks is looking forward to a new challenge after signing a two-year deal with Connacht which will see the 33-year-old join the province from the Cardiff Blues at the end of the current season.

The 33-year-old, who was born in Australia, retired from international rugby following Scotland’s loss to England at Murrayfield, his 66th cap for his adopted country.

Parks is the all-time leading points scorer in the Celtic League, with a tally of 1322 to his name. In seven seasons with Glasgow and two with Cardiff Blues he scored 19 tries and kicked 274 penalties and leads Munster outhalf Ronan O’Gara by 473 points. He has a kicking record of 73.4 per cent.

Looking forward to the move Parks said: “It’s been a huge decision in my life to move away from Cardiff to Connacht but a move which I am thrilled about.

“There is a fantastic mix of youth and experience at the club and for me I am really excited about the future of Connacht rugby. With my nine years of playing in the league I will be looking to bring that experience to Galway. I am looking forward to the next two seasons and the great challenges that will come with it.

Connacht coach Eric Elwood believes Parks’s experience and scoring ability will add hugely to Connacht in the coming seasons.

"Having Dan Parks come on board next season is a huge boost to the club. Having someone of his experience, both internationally with the number of caps he has and in the league as the highest points scorer of all-time, is a massive bonus.

“As a seasoned international we are confident he will bring a huge amount of experience to our team. He knows what we're about, what we're trying to do and his attitude and work ethic will add to the culture of the club. We are all looking forward to working with him and bringing through the next generation of Connacht players.”