Prop Finlay Bealham extends Connacht stay 

NEW CONTRACT: Finlay Bealham has penned a new deal. Pic: ©INPHO/Bryan Keane

Connacht prop Finlay Bealham has penned a new two-year contract with the province. 

The new contract will extend Ireland international Bealham's stay at the Westerners to at least the summer of 2026. 

This latest deal means Bealham will have a 15-year association with the club, having first joined the Connacht Sub-Academy in 2011. 

The 32-year-old - who made his professional Connacht debut in February of 2014 - is yet to return to the province since playing a part in all but one of Ireland's five games at the Rugby World Cup.

On the new deal, Bealham said: “It’s been a huge privilege representing Connacht and Ireland, so I’m delighted to be extending my contract with the province. 

"Playing for my club and country is something I’ll never take for granted, and representing Ireland at the World Cup in front of our incredible fans was one of the proudest moments of my career.

Connacht has been my home for 12 years now and I love it here. We’ve had great days in the past and I’m sure there are more great days to come. I can’t wait to get back playing with the club, and I’m more motivated than ever to help bring success to the province and national team in the years ahead.” 

Head coach Pete Wilkins added: “Finlay’s contract extension is another brilliant bit of news for the club. Quality tightheads props are vital in the modern game and with Finlay Connacht have a world-class operator in his position. 

"He’s someone who keeps going from strength to strength and he’s proven his importance both to us and in the Ireland setup. He’s also a brilliant guy and really popular in the dressing room, so his commitment to Connacht for another few years is great for everyone concerned.”