Jansen puts pen to paper on new two-year deal at Connacht
Connacht Rugby open their URC campaign at home to the Stormers this Friday
Connacht Rugby get the new United Rugby Championship underway this Friday night when they host the Stormers at the Dexcom Stadium (7.45pm), and they go into the game on the back of good news as reigning Player of the Year, Sean Jansen, has signed a fresh two-year contract extension, committing his future to the club.
Jansen, who capped a brilliant year by winning his first international cap in July when lining out against Japan, and was named Player of the Match after scoring a try, was entering the final year of his contract at the western province but has now agreed an additional two-year extension, keeping him at Dexcom Stadium until 2029 at the earliest.
“I’ve loved every moment of my 3 years here in Ireland, and I want to thank all the teammates, staff and especially the supporters for making me feel so welcome.
"It’s obvious based on how we finished last season that there’s something special happening here. We’re a tight-knit group who come into training every day to push ourselves and help deliver the success I know we’re capable of. We’re also lucky to work with such a talented group of coaches led by Stu. All I want to do now is to keep playing and contributing where I can, and bring silverware to the West," he said.
Jansen has gone from strength-to-strength since joining the club from Leicester Tigers in 2023. A powerful number 8, he has become a fan favourite with the Connacht supporters due to his ball-carrying ability and try-scoring performances - he scored 12 tries in 20 league appearances last season, while he also made an immense contribution in defence, coming third in the URC rankings for tackles made (219).
“Securing Sean’s future is a massive boost for everyone at Connacht. He played a big part in our push to the playoffs and Champions Cup rugby last season, culminating in that deserved international debut over the summer. He’s only 27 so his best years are still ahead of him, and having him commit to Connacht until at least 2029 is a statement of intent both by Sean and the club," Connacht head coach, Stuart Lancaster, said.