Bundee Aki

Bundee Aki is a New Zealand-born Irish rugby union player who plays centre for Connacht in the United Rugby Championship and for Ireland internationally. Since making his Connacht debut in 2014, Aki has become one of the most popular and recognisable players in the province. A powerful and direct runner with a strong work-rate in defence, Aki has won two Pro12/URC titles with Connacht and was also part of the 2018 Six Nations Championship-winning Ireland squad.

Aki was born in Auckland, New Zealand, on 1 April 1990. He moved to Ireland with his family when he was 11 years old and attended school in Galway. Aki played rugby for his school and local club, Galwegians, before joining the Connacht academy in 2009.

Aki made his Connacht debut in the 2014-15 season and quickly established himself as a key player for the province. He scored his first try for Connacht in a 27-13 win over Munster in January 2015. Aki played a key role in Connacht's Pro12 title-winning season in 2016-17, scoring a try in the final victory over Leinster.

Aki made his international debut for Ireland in the 2017 Six Nations Championship and has since become a regular in the team. He scored his first international try in a 56-19 win over Italy in 2018. Aki was part of the Ireland squad that won the Six Nations Championship in 2018 and was also selected for the 2019 Rugby World Cup squad.

Aki is a popular figure among Connacht and Ireland fans. He is known for his passionate and committed playing style, as well as his sense of humour. Aki is also a role model for young rugby players, both in Ireland and around the world.

A Testimonial to Bundee Aki

I had the pleasure of playing alongside Bundee Aki for several years at Connacht. He is a true warrior on the pitch and a great friend off it. He is always willing to go the extra mile and he never gives up. He is a great role model for young players and he is always looking to help others. He is a true legend of Connacht Rugby and I am proud to have played alongside him.

- John Muldoon, former Connacht captain
I have been a fan of Bundee Aki ever since he joined Connacht. He is a great player and a great person. He is always willing to give 100% and he never lets his team down. He is a true leader and he is always looking to help others. He is a credit to Connacht Rugby and to Ireland.

- Pat Lam, former Connacht head coach
Bundee Aki is a special player. He is a great talent and he is always willing to work hard. He is a great role model for young players and he is a true leader. He is a great asset to Connacht Rugby and to Ireland.

- Joe Schmidt, former Ireland head coach

Aki's Legacy

Bundee Aki is a true legend of Connacht Rugby and of Irish rugby. He is a great player and a great person. He is a role model for young players and he is a true leader. He will be remembered as one of the best players to ever wear the green jersey.