Connacht have confirmed the signing of versatile back Byron Ralston.Β
The 21-year-old will move west from Super Rugby side Western Force ahead of next season.
Having played on the wing and at outside centre, Ralston will provide options for Andy Friend.
Ralston has international experience with Australia at under-20 level and scored five tries for Western Force in 14 Super Rugby appearances.
Ralston came through the academy at Force and also excelled with the club in the National Rugby Championship, scoring seven tries in eight games on their way to winning the 2019 Grand Final.
π’ππππΎπππ π½ππππ π’
Delighted to confirm Byron Ralston of the @westernforce joins Connacht next season! π
β Winger or outside centre
β Super Rugby experience
β And yes, he's Irish-qualified βοΈ#WelcomeByron
Full story: https://t.co/04KrN6Jsc6 pic.twitter.com/VGMevvqD0Zβ Connacht Rugby (@connachtrugby) March 14, 2022
Speaking following confirmation of the move, the Australian says he's relishing the chance to play in Ireland.
βMoving to Connacht Rugby and the West of Ireland is a brilliant opportunity for me," he said.
"The style of rugby that they play will suit me down to the ground, and it gives me a chance to reconnect with my Irish roots.
"Iβm obviously aware of the positive experience other Aussies have had after moving to Connacht, and so I will be doing all I can to make a similar impact and help the club achieve the level of success they are all working towards.β
It represents another addition for Connacht, following the signings of Shamus Hurley Langton and Leinster duo Adam Byrne and Peter Dooley.
Head coach Andy Friend believes Ralston has the potential to be an exciting acquisition for his squad.
βIβm delighted that Byron has chosen to further his career with us.
"Heβs been playing as a winger for the Force, but also plays 13, so heβs yet another player we have who has great versatility.
"Given heβs only 21, he will get a great opportunity to grow his game here and be an important part of our setup.β
