Ioane And O’Brien Extend Their Connacht Stays

Connacht Rugby has announced that Josh Ioane and Sean O’Brien have renewed their contracts with the province, as the countdown continues to their next run of matches, including their historic Castlebar clash with Munster.

Out-half Ioane joined Connacht from New Zealand side, the Chiefs, last summer on a one-year deal, and has scored 45 points – including two tries – in his 10 appearances to date.

The 29-year-old landed three conversions and supplied a try assist during Connacht’s action-packed 38-30 win over Benetton Rugby last time out, which kept them in contention for a top eight finish in the BKT United Rugby Championship.

Prior to his arrival, Ioane made 72 appearances in Super Rugby, across his spells with the Highlanders and the Chiefs, and was capped by New Zealand in 2019.

Meanwhile, O’Brien, who can play at either blindside flanker or number 8, arrived at Dexcom Stadium from Leinster ahead of the 2023/24 season.

The 24-year-old has scored three tries in his 13 appearances so far, including one against Leinster earlier in the season. He has not played since suffering a hamstring injury against Perpignan in December.

Ioane has put pen to paper on a new two-year deal with Connacht, while O’Brien has signed on for the 2025/26 campaign.