Ireland forward Cormac Izuchukwu has signed a new deal with Ulster until the summer of 2028, the province has announced.
The 25-year-old Offaly man made his Ulster debut in 2021 and has been capped three times for Ireland.
The versatile 6ft 7in forward can play in both the second row and back row.
Izuchukwu, who has played 44 times for Richie Murphy’s side, said: “I’m delighted to commit my future to Ulster Rugby for the next couple of years.
“I feel this team is showing a lot of progress and I’m buzzing to be a part of this team.
“I feel that I can kick on under the coaches here and continue my progression over the seasons ahead.”
Ulster Rugby General Manager Rory Best said: “This is a really important renewal for us.
“Cormac has shown so much of his unique potential over the past season or two, with his profile of physicality and power helping to make him one of the most exciting forwards in Irish Rugby.
“He has earned national team recognition due to his performances, and we believe he has a very exciting future in front of him for both Ulster and Ireland.”
Izuchukwu and centre James Hume missed last weekend’s BKT URC defeat to Leinster but have been passed fit for Saturday’s trip to face Connacht (5.30pm).
Charlie Irvine suffered a calf muscle injury in that game and has been ruled out, while Nathan Doak (calf), Rob Baloucoune (shoulder) and Stewart Moore (wrist) are all injury concerns.
Listen to live radio commentary of Connacht v Ulster (5.30pm) and Munster v Leinster (7.45pm) on RTÉ Radio 1’s Saturday Sport