Cormac Izuchukwu has signed a new contract with Ulster until the end of the 2023 season after a breakthrough year in Belfast.

The Ireland Sevens international made his senior debut off the bench in the northern province’s away victory over Glasgow Warriors in the Guinness PRO14 in February.

Izuchukwu, a cousin of Offaly's All Ireland-winning hurling brothers, Joe, Billy and Johnny Dooley, arrived at Ulster's academy last year after a stint in Scotland at Kelso RFC.

“Ulster is where I have learned all of my XVs rugby," the 21-year-old said after putting pen to paper on this new deal.  "I’m looking forward to reflecting the ethos and skillset that I’ve gained through my time with the province so far on the pitch in the years ahead.”

Head-coach Dan McFarland says he’s been impressed by the former Cistercian College, Roscrea student's “rapid development” since arriving at the province.

“Since joining the Ulster Rugby Academy, Cormac Izuchukwu has impressed everyone with his rapid development.

"Despite not having an extensive amount of rugby experience, his athleticism and hunger to learn have already paid dividends in terms of what he has achieved both with the Senior team, as well as the A’s, on and off the field.”

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