Paul Marshall has agreed a contract extension with Ulster, which will see him stay with the province until 2017.

The scrum-half, who has represented Ireland at Under-21 and A level, revealed his delight at staying with the RaboDirect Pro 12 outfit.

He said: "I have been fortunate over the past seven years to do just that and I am extremely pleased to know that I will be representing my province for at least another three years.

"To be able to play in front of friends and family is very special. I am passionate about playing for Ulster and I love what it represents."

Fellow scrum-half Ruan Pienaar by agreed a contract extension to stay with Ulster earlier this month.