Connacht fans have cause to celebrate today in the wake of the news that two of their key players have put pen to paper on new deals with the province.
Aki, who qualifies to play for Ireland at the start of the 2017 season, added another three years to his current deal, while Dillane has added a further two.
Speaking about the extension, Dillane said "Connacht Rugby has given me so many opportunities since I started in the Academy, and I'm delighted to have signed on again. I am enjoying my rugby so much here and am excited about the future of this team and the province."
Aki was equally happy to be cementing his future through to 2020, saying: "The last two years with Connacht Rugby have been incredible. I moved over here not really knowing what to expect but this place has become home to me and my family now. I am proud to be part of this Connacht team and I'm excited to see what we can achieve together."
With two vital parts of his team now ready to line out in green for the foreseeable future, Head Coach Pat Lam said: "I'm really pleased that Bundee and Ultan have committed their futures to Connacht Rugby. Two talented rugby players, naturally their performances have attracted a lot of attention and there is no doubt that they had options in terms of where they could play.
"But I believe it is a massive statement about what we are doing here as a team and an organisation that they were both so determined to continue to play their part."
Connacht CEO Willie Ruane also welcomed the news that they were holding on to the pair, saying that both Dillane and Aki "are truly committed to the overall vision for the province and their signatures are a big boost to the future of Connacht Rugby. We're delighted, for the two players and for our supporters, to be able to share this news."
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