Ireland back Robbie Henshaw has signed a new two-year deal with Connacht that will keep him at the Sportsground until at least 2016.

The 20-year-old from Athlone earned his third international cap in the autumn internationals, coming off the bench against Australia.

The former Buccaneers star made his debut against the United States during last summer’s tour and also played against Canada on that trip.

He had already represented his country at under-18, under-19, and under-20 level, and went on to play for the Ireland Wolfhounds against England Saxons last January.

Although he started his career as a fullback, he has played most of this season at outside centre under new coach Pat Lam, and is seen as a possible long-term replacement for Brian O’Driscoll in the number 13 shirt at international level.

Commenting on the new deal, Henshaw said: “I’m absolutely delighted to have signed a new contract with Connacht. Playing for Ireland recently was a huge honour and I was so proud to be representing my home province as well as my country.

“It’s been an unbelievable 15 months and I’m so happy that I was given my first chance here at Connacht and can now continue to improve under Pat and the coaching team.”

Lam added: “It’s fantastic that Robbie has committed his future to Connacht Rugby. He is an extremely talented young man and is constantly improving as a player. I’m pleased that he sees Connacht as the place for him to continue that progress, playing week in week out in big games.

“Robbie has proven himself to be one of the best young players in the country and I have no doubt that he will continue his remarkable career both with Connacht and Ireland.”