Ireland international secondrow Dan Tuohy has signed a three-year extension to his contract that will keep him at the province until the summer of 2018.

The 29-year-old, who signed for Ulster from Exeter Chiefs in the summer of 2009, and has made 118 appearances for the province.

He made a try-scoring debut for Ireland against the All Blacks in 2010 and has won nine caps in total. “I am delighted to have signed a new contract with Ulster,” said Tuohy. “I have been here almost six years now and although Ulster Rugby has evolved a huge amount in that time we are yet to win anything.

“Having the chance to be part of a trophy-winning Ulster team was a huge part of my decision to stay and I will be giving my all to help Ulster be successful in the next three seasons.”

Ulster team manager, Bryn Cunningham, added: "Dan is hugely important to us and has developed into a highly effective leader both on off the pitch. He has proven at both international and provincial level that he is an outstanding player in his position. His effectiveness as a powerful ball carrier to break the gainline at important times in matches is crucial in the modern game.

“I am extremely pleased he has committed to Ulster in the long term showing the belief our frontline players have in the future of Ulster Rugby. I have no doubt that he will continue to make a huge contribution to our success in the next three seasons.”