Sean Jansen has given Connacht an early piece of good news before the United Rugby Championship season begins, signing a fresh two year contract that keeps him at Dexcom Stadium until at least 2029.
The number eight was Connacht’s Player of the Year last season. He scored 12 tries in 20 appearances and finished third in the URC tackle rankings with 219. That is the sort of production a province cannot casually replace.
Connacht keep their main carrier
Jansen joined Connacht from Leicester Tigers in 2023 and has become one of the province’s most influential forwards. His form earned a first Ireland call-up for the Nations Championship in July.
He made his Test debut against Japan, scored a try and was named player of the match. He then made the matchday 23 for the following fixture against New Zealand.
Jansen said Connacht’s finish to last season had convinced him there was something to build on. He also pointed to the coaching group led by Stuart Lancaster.
A good start, but only a start
Lancaster called the deal a massive boost and said Jansen’s best years were still ahead of him. He is 27, carries hard and has made himself a reliable defensive presence. The signature gives the new head coach a serious forward around whom to build.
Connacht have often had enough quality to make a season interesting. Their job now is to make it count when the URC reaches its sharper end. Keeping Jansen is a sensible move. It is not a silverware guarantee, but it is the kind of decision that helps a good team become harder to shift.
Reporting: Connacht Rugby