Ulster head coach Dan McFarland is relishing more X-factor moments from Rob Baloucoune after the flying winger committed his future to the club today.
Baloucoune, hat-trick hero from Saturday's Champions Cup win in Toulouse, has put pen to paper on a three year contract extension.
The new deal, which was confirmed by the Irish province on Monday afternoon, will keep him with the Kingspan Stadium until at least the summer of 2025.
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Dan McFarland, who handed Baloucoune his debut in 2018, said: “Rob is an exceptional talent and it’s fantastic that a player of his calibre has committed his future to our province.
“Not only does he possess devastating pace with the ability to score tries from anywhere, but he is also a superb defender, as he showcased against Toulouse.
“I’m looking forward to what Rob will deliver in the Ulster jersey over the coming seasons.”
Baloucoune, who made a try-scoring Ireland debut against the USA last summer, said: “I’m delighted to have extended my contract with Ulster for three more years.
“I’ve really enjoyed the journey so far alongside a great group of lads and I’m excited to be part of this team as we continue to grow together.”
Following a stint with the Ireland Sevens programme, the Enniskillen-born winger made an instant impact at Ulster, with try-scoring contributions against the likes of Munster, Leicester, and Racing 92.
The 24-year-old earned a Development contract for the 2019-20 season and was upgraded to a senior contract the following year.
Baloucoune has already crossed the whitewash nine times in this season’s United Rugby Championship and Heineken Champions Cup campaigns.
He added three tries to his tally in a Star of the Match performance in Saturday’s 26-20 win over Toulouse in the first leg of a round of 16 European tie in France.
McFarland’s men hold a crucial six point advantage over the reigning champions heading into Saturday’s return leg at the Kingspan Stadium.
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