Connacht and Ireland centre Bundee Aki has signed a new deal with the IRFU (Irish Rugby Football Union). His new contract will keep him at Connacht until the summer of 2025.
The New Zealander was Ireland's standout player at this year's Rugby World Cup, scoring five tries in France. Aki was also named player of the match in the Pool B wins against Tonga and South Africa.
This news comes months after rumours surfaced that the centre could leave the province after being dropped. These rumours have been quashed today as he put pen to paper on a new deal at the Sportsground.
"Playing in Ireland means the world to me, and I am delighted to sign a contract extension with the IRFU and Connacht," Aki said.
Aki made his debut for Ireland after qualifying on residency grounds in 2017 and surpassed 50 caps during the Rugby World Cup. He has also been part of the British and Irish Lions squad for the tour of South Africa, where he started the third Test in Cape Town. The Connacht star has also played 127 times for Connacht, helping them win a Pro12 title in 2016.
"Since moving to Galway nine years ago, Ireland has become a home away from home, and I am incredibly grateful to my coaches, teammates, and supporters for making my family and me feel so welcome here. We have made great friends and incredible memories together, and I am excited about the talent that is emerging across the country," he added.
"I believe that there are more great days to come in the green of Connacht and Ireland, and I am hugely excited about what the future holds."
He's a Connacht legend and World Player of the Year nominee.
And he's here to stay!#Bundee2025 https://t.co/3TDI8FxaLT pic.twitter.com/dMpKm9tMHb— Connacht Rugby (@connachtrugby) October 27, 2023
Connacht head coach Peter Wilkins had his own words to share about Aki's new deal and admitted that he and his coaching team were delighted to retain Aki's talents for another two years.
"Bundee has made a huge contribution to Connacht Rugby over the nearly 10 years that he has been here," Wilkins said.
"He is one of the best players in world rugby, and his performances at the Rugby World Cup were further evidence of that, so we are obviously delighted that he has chosen to continue his future with Connacht and Ireland.
"Bundee's commitment to Connacht reflects not just the passion he has for this province but also the belief he has in this club. We look forward to welcoming him back after his much-needed break, and I have no doubt every Connacht fan will show him how much he means to us all when he next runs out at the Sportsground."
Connacht will play against the Glasgow Warriors at 3 pm tomorrow.
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