Carlow man Tom Daly has signed a new two-year deal with Connacht.
The centre arrived from Leinster in 2018 and has been a firm fan favourite ever since.
Daly was named both the Players’ Player and Supporters’ Player of the Year for the 2020/21 season as he earned a call-up to the Irish squad for the summer tests.
The 28-year-old had been linked with a number of potential suitors upon the end of his contract in the summer of 2022 but Thursday’s news will be welcome by Connacht supporters as he commits his future to the western province.
“Playing for Connacht has been the highlight of my career so far,” said Daly. “There’s a really strong group of players and management who are all working together to succeed both in the URC and Champions Cup.
“I’m thankful to Andy and the coaches who have shown trust in me and I can’t wait to play my part in achieving our aims in the years ahead.”
Connacht head coach Andy Friend added: “Tom is the perfect example of a player who has grabbed his playing opportunities with both hands.
I’ve been impressed by him ever since he joined on his loan deal in 2018, and then we all saw last season just how good of a player he’s become.
“We’re all looking forward to seeing him continue his progression and help the squad to succeed over the next two years.”