Heenan and Ronaldson have both been rewarded with new contracts.

Heenan and Ronaldson have both been rewarded with new contracts.

CONNACHT TODAY ANNOUNCED that both Jake Heenan and Craig Ronaldson had signed two-year contract extensions with the province.

Former New Zealand U20 captain Heenan becomes Irish qualified in June and the 24-year-old flanker is in his third season with Pat Lam’s side.

Ronaldson was promoted to the Connacht squad from the AIL in 2013 and the 26-year-old inside back has proven his versatility in both the 12 and 10 jerseys.

In a statement today, Lam said the signings were made with next year’s Champions Cup in mind.

Jake and Craig both started with Connacht the same season I did and it’s been fantastic to witness their growth and development as rugby players in that time.

“I’ve known Jake for a long time now and I’m excited by how far he will take his game in the next two seasons. While he has been frustrated with injuries, his determination and work ethic has ensured he has come back stronger each time.

“Craig has been a great asset for our squad over the last three seasons. As an inside centre, who can cover outhalf, his versatility and goal kicking has been vital for the team as well as giving us excellent depth in the backs.”

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