Bundee Aki

Irish centre of New Zealand heritage whose powerful running, reliable defence and important try-scoring contributions have made him an integral part of Ireland's most successful international team.

Bundee Aki is Ireland's powerful Galway-based centre, a New Zealand-born player who qualified for Ireland through residency and quickly became one of their most important midfield players. His combination of exceptional physical power, aggressive carrying, and improving defensive skills have made him a key piece of Ireland's backline. A Lions tourist in 2021, his bullocking runs and positive attitude have endeared him to Irish rugby fans.

Aki is known for his explosive ball-carrying ability and devastating hand-offs that can break through defensive lines. His low center of gravity and powerful physique make him extremely difficult to tackle, while his offloading skills create opportunities for teammates. Defensively, he is a fierce competitor who rarely misses tackles and provides crucial leadership in the midfield.

Aki helped transform Connacht from underdogs to PRO14 champions and became one of Ireland's most reliable centres during their most successful period in international rugby.

• Pro12 Winner 2016 (with Connacht)
• Guinness PRO14 Runner-Up 2018 (with Connacht)
• Heineken Champions Cup Runner-Up 2024 (with Leinster)
• Six Nations Championship 2018 (with Ireland)
• Six Nations Grand Slam 2018 (with Ireland)
• Six Nations Championship 2023 (with Ireland)
• Six Nations Grand Slam 2023 (with Ireland)
• Rugby World Cup Quarter-Finalist 2019 (with Ireland)
• British & Irish Lions Tour 2021
• World Rugby Player of the Year Nominee 2018
• Guinness Series Winner 2018 (with Ireland)
• Autumn Nations Series Winner 2022 (with Ireland)

Club Career

Club	Period	Apps	Tries	Shirt
Connacht	2016–2024	135	7	#12
Leinster	2014–2016	147	7	#12
Ireland	—	65	8	—