Dave McSharry has signed a new two-year contract that will keep him at Connacht until 2017.

Connacht and the IRFU announced details of the 24-year-old centre’s new deal, the latest in a number of new deals for the Westerners’ players this week.

McSharry joined Connacht in 2011, and has amassed 58 senior caps since then.

The former Templeogue schoolboy has played in 14 games this season, and with Robbie Henshaw likely to be away on Irish duty over the coming season and during the World Cup, McSharry provides experienced cover.

McSharry earned an Ireland ‘A’ cap in 2013 starting for the Wolfhounds side that played England Saxons at the Sportsground.

He was subsequently called up to the Ireland Six Nations training squad but a groin injury restricted his progress last season.

Connacht head coach Pat Lam said that he was very pleased McSharry had signed on for two more years, and that he was an integral part of the team.

“Our young back line is often talked about and the fact that Dave, at just 24 years old, is seen as one of the more senior backs, speaks volumes of not only his talent but also the potential there to develop his game even further and go on to achieve great things both personally and with Connacht.”

McSharry himself said he was delighted with the new deal.

“I’ve been here four years now and it’s very much home for me. A lot has changed since 2011 when I first came in but without a doubt we’ve been building bit by bit and getting closer and closer to achieving great things.”