Ulster agrees to contract extension with “exceptional” winger Robert Balcon

Ulster coach Dan MacFarland is enjoying Rob Balukun’s X-Factor moments after the flying winger moved to the club today.

Baluchon, the treble champion after winning the European Cup in Toulouse on Saturday, has put his three-year contract extension on paper.

The new contract, confirmed by County Ireland on Monday afternoon, will remain at Kingspan Stadium at least until the summer of 2025.

Dan MacFarland, who made his Balochun debut in 2018, said: “Ruby is a special talent and it’s great that a player of this caliber has dedicated his future to our district.

“Not only does he have devastating speed with the ability to make attempts from anywhere, but he’s also a very good defender, as he showed against Toulouse.

“I can’t wait to see what the Ruby Ulster jersey brings in the coming seasons.”

Baluchon, who made his Ireland debut last summer against the USA, said: “I am delighted to extend my contract with Ulster for another three years.

“I’ve really enjoyed traveling so far with such an amazing group of players and I’m thrilled to be part of this team as we continue to grow together.”

After working on the Ireland Sevens programme, the Enniskillen-born winger made an immediate impact on Ulster by contributing to trials such as Munster, Lester and Racing92.

The 24-year-old was given a contract to develop the 2019-20 season and was renewed with a major contract the following year.

Balcon has already won nine times in the United Rugby Championship and nine times in the Heineken Champions Cup.

He added three attempts as he shone in the 26-20 victory over Toulouse on Saturday in the first leg of the European quarter-finals in France.

McFarland’s side are six points ahead of the defending champions, who will head to Kingsspan Stadium for a second game on Saturday.