The 25-year-old, who made his Ulster debut in 2004-05 and is now captain, has committed to the club until June 2010.

Ulster Rugby chief executive Michael Reid said: “We're delighted that Rory has agreed a new deal with Ulster Rugby.

“He's matured tremendously as a player and as an individual in recent years and while there's no doubting that this season so far has presented a huge challenge for him, both in terms of Ireland's disappointment at the World Cup and his brother Simon's illness, as well as Ulster's loss of form, he's never shirked any of his responsibilities as a captain or as a team player and in many ways embodies what playing for the red hand means.”