Burns Commits To Ulster For Two More Years
Ulster out-half Billy Burns qualifies to play for Ireland through his Cork-born grandfather ©INPHO/Philip Magowan
Ulster Rugby have announced that out-half Billy Burns has signed a two-year contract extension, keeping him at Kingspan Stadium until at least the summer of 2022.
Burns began his professional career as a 17-year-old at Gloucester where he went on to make over 100 senior appearances for the Cherry & Whites before making the move to Ulster in the summer of 2018.
Since then, he has cemented his place in the squad, amassing 28 appearances to date and contributing 54 points for the province.
An exceptionally talented player, Burns quickly struck up a strong partnership with scrum half John Cooney as Ulster’s first choice half-back pairing, and have already started together on 20 occasions.
This season Burns has started four of Ulster’s seven games, including the home win over Cardiff Blues last month when he captained the side for the first time.
The province’s head coach Dan McFarland said of the deal: “It is great news that Billy has committed to Ulster. He is still a young man who is desperate to keep learning and developing both as a player and athlete.
“He’s already contributed hugely on the pitch throughout last year’s campaign, and has demonstrated an excellent ability to lead a team. We’re all looking forward to Billy being a driving force in our group into the future.”
Burns commented on the contract extension, saying: “Since joining Ulster last summer, I’ve made it my home and have really enjoyed my time here. The support I’ve had has been incredible and we have a great group of players, so it was a no-brainer for me to extend my contract.
“Kingspan Stadium is a great place to play rugby and I’m really pleased that I’ve got at least another couple of years of that to look forward to.”