Fantastic news ahead of the resumption of Connacht’s Pro12 campaign.
It hasn’t been a good season for the men out west, that much is sure.
A cruel exit from the Champions Cup, a raft of injuries to key players, the announcement of Pat Lam’s departure and a poor showing in the Pro12 have all contributed to a disappointing season so far.
It’s not all negative though, the likes of Bundee Aki and Ultan Dillane announced contract extensions earlier in the season to negate speculation surrounding their futures.
There is also some light at the end of the tunnel for Connacht fans. They still have the potential to put a run of form together in the league to ensure that they are playing in Europe’s top club competition next season.
Last season, Connacht had six wins out of six during the Six Nations period and they will need to get close to that return again if they are to salvage some pride this year.
One man who can play a big role in achieving this, is Bundee Aki. The 26-year-old has been sidelined with an ankle injury he picked up in Connacht’s dramatic 20-18 victory over Wasps in the Sportsground before Christmas.
He was penciled in for a return in mid February and Aki’s latest Instagram activity seems to suggest that he is on track to achieve this.
It seems that Aki has returned to training in a running capacity at the very least.
In Aki’s absence, Connacht’s only win came in a home victory over Zebre, so the Sportsground faithful will be hoping his return to the team will improve their performances on the pitch.
Connacht face the Cardiff Blues in Wales this Sunday as they look to get their first win in the Pro12 since the beginning of December.
