Duffy commits to Connacht

Connacht Rugby's captain Gavin Duffy has penned a contract extension to stay at the Sportsground until at least 2014.

Fullback Duffy, who hails from Ballina in Co. Mayo, led Connacht to victory against Treviso at the start of the season.

The 30-year-old can draw on the experience of four years at Harlequins, 10 Ireland caps and over 100 appearances for Connacht.

"Staying with Connacht means a huge amount to me, as a team we have become a really tight knit group this season and that is only going to get better next season as we add even more quality to the side," Duffy said.

"Staying at the Sportsground, and the security a two year deal brings, means I can concentrate on my own game, getting the best out of the people around me and driving Connacht forward."

Connacht Head Coach Eric Elwood said he was delighted by Duffy's decision.

" We all know he's very proud of where he comes from and it was a great honour for him to lead his team this year in our first ever Heineken Cup," Elwood said.

"We've enjoyed the highs and lows of this season and we're looking to finish on an up and getting news like this is great for the squad going forward into next year."