Ulster Rugby have confirmed that Darren Cave has signed a new three-year contract.
The 27-year-old centre has made 144 appearances for the province since 2007, after making his debut against Border Reivers.
Speaking about the new deal, Cave said: “I am delighted to be staying with Ulster until at least 2018. I have total faith in the coaching and management set-up we have and I am excited about what this group can achieve in the coming seasons.
“The support that we get, particularly at Kingspan Stadium, never ceases to amaze me and as someone who was brought up supporting Ulster, it’s a pleasure to be involved for the next three and a half years.”
Cave has been in scintillating form as of late, putting in consecutive man-of-the-match performances in Ulster’s last two home games.
Bryn Cunningham, Ulster’s Team Manager said: “Darren has been one of Ulster’s most consistent performers over the last number of seasons. Aside from his considerable try scoring record, his defensive organisation is outstanding in what can be the most difficult channel to defend.
“His performance on Saturday [against Scarlets], in which he scored one try and set up another, highlights Darren’s importance to the squad. With undoubted interest from other quarters, we are delighted to retain his services for at least three more years.”