ABRAHAM PAPALI’I HAS signed a new contract with Connacht which will keep him at the Sportsground until the summer of 2022.
The number 8 has impressed for the province since his arrival last July, scoring three tries in 11 appearances.
The powerful New Zealander has now been rewarded with a one-year extension to a deal that was due to expire at the end of this season.
“I’ve been really pleased with Abraham’s progression since he joined us,” Connacht head coach Andy Friend said of the 27-year-old rugby league convert.
“He’s had to adapt to the rigours of rugby union as well as an off-field culture change, made no easier by the pandemic, and we are now seeing the fruits of his hard work.
“His last few performances have been very impressive and we look forward to seeing him continue his development into next season.”
Excellent
That just leaves Quinn Roux of the big names now to sign for next season. Great to secure Papali’i for another season.
Should have been a two year deal. Bigger carrier than Coetzee, French clubs will be after him next summer waving big checks. Keeping him at Connacht the 2nd year would most likely open up possibility of move to Leinster/Munster if IRFU decided that his skillset was needed to beef up their carrying game (after ERC this year, that should be a definite yes) and maybe push hom on for Irish eligibility too….
@Sea__Point: lol, I apologise if this is not the case but is your comment an attempt at trolling ? Are you saying Connacht should sign him for an extra year so he can play for other province? And that oils lead to him playing for Ireland ? (in 4 years time when his minimum 5 years of residency is completed)
An answer to provincial club failure this season in 4 years time when he will be 33 ?
@Sea__Point: How many Connacht lads have got longer than one year though? I think the vast majority only got one year including Thornbury after a super season. It may be a local finance issue but I think the majority of our players will be snapped up during the season. I hope we don’t lose Roux, the delay in him signing have me concerned.
Himself and Boyle have been playing well subbing in for each other.