Matthew was born in London before his parents moved back to Ireland, settling outside Ballinrobe, where his father's parents were from.
Burke joined the local club in Ballinrobe and spent most of my playing career there until he joined Galwegians last year in 2015.
He trained with Connacht age grade squads at U-16, U-17, U-18, U-19 and U-20 level, playing in inter-provincial campaigns with the U-18 team and the U-20s. He was also selected to play for the Irish Youths against Italy U-18 in February 2015 where he got his first international cap.
Burke was called up to the Ireland U20 squad for the game against Italy.
Whilst still in the academy, Burke made his senior competitive debut for Connacht in their 34–14 away defeat against English side Sale Sharks during the 2018–19 Challenge Cup on 20 October 2018.
He signed a professional contract with the province in April 2019, which saw him join the senior squad ahead of the 2019–20 season.
Career
 |
Connacht Rugby Loosehead Prop |
2018 - present |
 |
Ireland U20's Tighthead Prop |
