Connacht's triple boost as Ralston, Dowling and Smith sign new deals

Ralston has made 13 starts for Connacht this season playing on both wings and at outside centre.

CONNACHT HAVE SECURED contract boosts with the news a trio of stars have penned new deals with the province.

Australian back Byron Ralston and lock Oisín Dowling have both agreed two-year extensions until the summer of 2026, while Andrew Smith will remain for at least one more campaign after joining from the Irish Sevens programme last season.

For Ralston, who was born in Darwin but is Irish qualified, he has been a regular under Pete Wilkins this season, making 13 starts.

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The 23-year-old joined Connacht from the Western Force in the summer of 2022, and has scored seven tries in 28 appearances to date.

“Byron is a key member of the squad thanks to his consistency and versatility,” head coach Wilkins said.

“The frequency of his selection so far this season demonstrates his importance to us, and with his work ethic and commitment to growing his game, he will only continue to improve and contribute over the coming seasons.

“We’re delighted to have him sign on at Dexcom for another two years.”

Dowling is primarily a lock but can also feature at blindside flanker and that adaptability was cited by Wilkins for their decision to extend his four-year stay.

“Oisín brings an athleticism and abrasiveness that makes him a key part of our group of locks. His ability to play in the back row also gives us a variety of options.”

Smith has started in all three positions in the back three during his 13 appearances so far this campaign and Wilkins added: “Andrew is another young man who you can see is getting better with every game he plays.

“He is a winger who typifies the fast and exciting brand of rugby we aim to play, and I know how much our supporters enjoy watching him. With further growth and development to come, he has the ability to turn into a top-class player.”