Andrew Browne and Ben Marshall have both signed contract extentions at Connacht

Browne, a product of the Connacht Academy, is currently in his 10th season with his native province. The Galway man made his senior debut against Cardiff in April 2007, the same year he represented Ireland Under-20’s in their Six Nations Grand Slam success. He has since racked up 136 appearances across both European and Pro12 competitions and was one of nine players to travel to Tsbisli as part of the Emerging Ireland squad in the summer.

Another promising player on that same Emerging Ireland tour was second row Ben Marshall who had just signed with Connacht from Leinster. In his first season at the Sportsground, the 25-year-old suffered two arm injuries that kept his game time limited but last month he returned to start in both victories over Zebre and Ospreys.

“Browney (Andrew Bronwe) is a very experienced member of our forward pack who myself and Jimmy (Duffy) believe can still take his game to another level. We’re pleased he will continue that process and commitment with his home province.

“Ben has been unfortunate with injury in his first season with us but we have been impressed with his professional attitude and hunger to improve. We also believe he has the ability to progress his game further.

“There is really good competition in the second row position and the hard work that Browney and Ben put in will help the continued success and growth of our forward pack,” said Connacht coach Pat Lam.