Ireland prop Finlay Bealham signs two-year contract extension with Connacht

Ireland international Finlay Bealham has extended his stay at Connacht after signing a two-year contract extension with the Irish provincial club.

A product of Connacht Academy, Bealham made his senior debut with the club ahead of the 2014/15 season.

The 30-year-old was part of the victorious 2016 Pro12 final where Connacht defeated Leinster in the final 20-10. He has overall featured in 167 games for the club.

“I’m buzzing to be able to sign on with Connacht Rugby for two more seasons. I moved to Galway as a teenager and it quickly became my home," said Bealham to the club's official website.

"Connacht have given me every opportunity to play at the highest level and we are continuing to evolve and grow in the West.

"Representing Connacht and Ireland is always an honour and is where my heart is.”

Having represented Ireland Under 20, Emerging Ireland and Barbarians in the past, Bealham made his international debut for Ireland in March 2016 and has gone on to play 18 Tests with his last appearance coming during the recently concluded Autumn Series Cup.

"He knows Connacht inside out having worked his way through our ranks from our Academy, and he epitomises what hard work and self-belief can achieve," said Connacht head coach Andy Friend.

"He’s also a huge personality and is very popular with the players, staff and supporters alike. We’re all looking forward to seeing him wear the green of Connacht and hopefully Ireland for many years ahead.”

Connacht are positioned seventh in the United Rugby Championship table with three wins from seven matches.