The IRFU have announced that Jared Payne has signed a two year Irish contract which will keep him at Kingspan Stadium until June 2018.
Payne made his debut for Ulster against the Cardiff Blues in September 2011 and has represented the province 63 times, scoring 14 tries.
The 30-year-old won his first international cap in the win over South Africa in November 2014 and has claimed 12 caps and two tries to date.
He is the latest in a line of Irish internationals to sign contracts, including Payne's frequent centre partner Robbie Henshaw who signed with Leinster on Tuesday.
"I am very happy to have signed a two year Irish contract to remain with Ulster Rugby,” Payne said. “It has been an honour for me to not only pull on the Ulster jersey but to represent Ireland.
“There is plenty for us to achieve at Ulster and with Ireland."
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[/raw]Great news for @UlsterRugby fans as @thepain15 has signed a two year contract extension today! @IrishRugby pic.twitter.com/85Y2xjLT8e
— Inpho Photography (@Inphosports) February 18, 2016
"Jared has illustrated his ability to compete at the highest level and be an important leader and decision maker for both Ireland and Ulster,” IRFU Performance Director David Nucifora said. “We are delighted to have secured his services for a further two years."
Ulster's Director of Rugby Les Kiss added: "Jared is an incredibly astute and intelligent rugby player. He adds experience and calm to any backline and will continue to be an important player for Ulster for years to come."
