Quinn Roux and Ultan Dillane have signed two year contracts with Connacht. The South African born Roux initially arrived on a four-month loan deal from Leinster at the start of the season, an agreement that was recently extended until the summer.

However today’s announcement means that the soon-to-be Irish qualified Roux will remain at the Sportsground until 2014. The six foot six inch, 19 stone secondrow has played in 14 games for Connacht this season and turned in a number of excellent performances.

Following three years in the Connacht Academy, 21-year-old Ultan Dillane, who made his professional debut this season, will progress to a senior contract. French-born Dillane moved to his mother's native Kerry when he was seven years old. He played his club rugby with Tralee RFC before attracting the attention of Connacht Academy Manager Nigel Carolan.

He represented Ireland at both under-18 and under-19 level. Standing at 6ft 6ins and almost 17 stone, his ball carrying, imposing physicality, and threat at the set piece are just some of his major attributes.

Connacht coach Pat Lam explained: "As a coaching team, we are very excited to have both Quinn and Ultan staying with Connacht for at least the next two years. They are both young, abrasive locks who have real physical presence. I believe with continued game time and exposure at this level, they have the potential to play for Ireland in the near future.

“Quinn is someone who has impressed us all massively since he came in during the summer. His work ethic and desire to succeed on and off the field was apparent from day one. He has fit in extremely well with the rest of the squad and I know our supporters have really embraced him as well.

“It’s a very important part of our vision and succession planning to have players coming through from the Academy. Ultan is someone we have watched develop under the guidance of Nigel (Carolan) and Jimmy (Duffy). He seized his opportunity last month and displayed in all three inter pro games the talent he has. We’re delighted that he will be stepping up to the senior squad next year.”