A real attacking talent who can unlock defences just like that, DARREN CAVE played over 20 times for Ulster in his first full season with the province.

The 22-year-old is an exciting runner and strong-tackling centre and one of a crop of young players at Ravenhill who have progressed through the Academy structure.

He has also made rapid progression at international level, from winning the Grand Slam with the Ireland Under-20s in 2007 to starring in Ireland's Rugby World Cup Sevens qualification and scoring a handful of tries for Ireland 'A' at the last two Churchill Cup tournaments.

The former Sullivan Upper pupil, who is attached to Belfast Harlequins, was included in Ireland's extended 2009 RBS 6 Nations squad and is on the verge of making his Test breakthrough.