Cave Pens Contract Extension With Ulster
Ulster centre Darren Cave has put pen to paper on a contract extension that will see him remain at Kingspan Stadium until at least the summer of 2019.
Darren Cave is a graduate of the Abbey Insurance Ulster Academy and made his senior provincial debut as a replacement in the 33-9 win over Border Reivers in April 2007. He is currently Ulster’s third most-capped player, having made 208 appearances, and has scored 44 tries to date.
The 31-year-old midfield also has 11 international caps to his name and was a member of Ireland’s 2015 Rugby World Cup squad.
Commenting on his new deal, Cave said: “I’m really pleased to be staying on for another season. This month marks 11 years since I earned my first Ulster cap and I still feel that I have much more to give.
“We have a lot of work to do but the guys are committed to improving as individuals and as a collective. Hopefully we can finish this season strongly and then bring that through to the new campaign. I believe the future of Ulster Rugby is bright and I’m really looking forward to being part of that.”
The province’s operations director, Bryn Cunningham, welcomed the news, saying: “Darren has been an integral part of Ulster Rugby for over a decade and he still has a lot to offer both on and off the pitch. He is proud to represent Ulster and gives absolutely everything to the cause every time he pulls on the jersey.
“He’s a very intelligent player who has an excellent understanding of the game and he communicates superbly with others. He provides a different threat to our other centres in attack and he is also a very astute defender, which he has proven time and time again.
“In addition to what he adds on the pitch, he is a really good role model and mentor for younger players in the team. We are losing a few senior players at the end of this season and therefore it’s particularly important that we keep hold of guys like Cavey.”