Connacht’s Bundee Aki signs three year contract extension – Off The Ball

The IRFU and Connacht Rugby have confirmed that Bundee Aki has signed a three-year contract extension that will keep him at the Sportsground up to the end of the 2022/23 season.

It's the first full IRFU central contract for a Connacht player.

Aki joined Connacht in 2014 and has played for the province 92 times, scoring 18 tries.

He was selected as the Pro12 Player of the season in 2016 when the side won the championship.

In 2017, he made his international debut for Ireland and has gone on to win 23 caps and score four tries.

The following year he played all five games in Irelands Grand Slam Six Nations success and also started in the win at home to the All Blacks.

During Ireland's disappointing World Cup in Japan Aki played against Scotland, Russia and Samoa in the Pool stages of the competition.

Commenting on the signing, Connacht Head Coach Andy Friend said:

Bundee has been an incredible player for Connacht since his arrival in the Sportsground.

"He has completely embraced every aspect of life in the West of Ireland and has driven standards among the playing group.

"He shares the ambition that we have for the seasons ahead and what he can achieve as a Connacht player.

"His commitment for a further three seasons is a sign of the energy and passion he has for the province.

Bundee Aki also expressed his delight with the signing:

Iam grateful for the opportunity I have been given to represent both Connacht and Ireland and am delighted to extend my IRFU contract.

"The whole of Connacht have been incredibly supportive of both me and my family and the Ireland supporters have been fantastic from the very first day I was selected for the national squad.

"Connacht has become home to me and my family and I want to play my part in helping Connacht achieve their ambitious plans in the years to come.

Meanwhile, Willie Ruane, Connacht Rugby CEO, commented:

Connacht Rugby is delighted that Bundee has extended his contract to 2023.

"This is the third time that Bundee has committed to Connacht Rugby which reflects not only his belief in what we are doing but also our commitment in supporting him to achieve for both Connacht and Ireland.

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Connacht's Bundee Aki signs three year contract extension - Off The Ball