Mack Hansen commits future to Ireland with new deal

Mack Hansen has committed his future to Ireland and Connacht by signing a new two-year contract.

Australia-born wing Hansen has scored 12 tries in 27 international caps following his debut against Wales in the opening round of the 2022 Guinness Six Nations.

The 26-year-old’s latest deal runs until the end of the 2026-27 season.

“Since moving to Ireland I have loved my time and I am delighted to sign this new contract,” Hansen said to the Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU).

“Playing in Ireland with Connacht means a huge amount to me and I feel that I have improved because of the coaching and structures here.

“There’s a huge amount to play for this season and I’ll be focusing my efforts on finishing strongly for Ireland and Connacht. I’d like to thank the IRFU for putting their faith in me and I’m hugely excited about the future.”

Hansen, whose mother hails from Cork, joined Connacht from Canberra-based Brumbies in 2021.

He was nominated for World Rugby’s breakthrough player of the year in his debut season at Test level, with the award going to Italy’s Ange Capuozzo.

IRFU performance director David Humphreys said: “As a mainstay of the Ireland and Connacht sides in recent years, securing Mack’s signature over the coming season is a huge boost for Irish rugby.

“He is a proven performer, someone who wears his heart on his sleeve and delivers on the big occasion. He is also a crowd favourite for club and country.

“We believe that there’s a lot more to come from Mack and I’m sure that he will continue his upward progress over the coming seasons.”