McSharry joined Connacht in 2011 and since then the former Templeogue schoolboy has proven himself as a front line starter in the centre.

The 23-year-old has started in 16 games this season, bringing his total tally to 30 senior caps to date.

He has established himself as a dangerous runner and his attacking prowess came to the fore this season with tries against the European Champions Leinster and Premiership Champions Harlequins.

A landmark season has seen the young centre earn his first Ireland 'A' cap when he was named in the Wolfhounds side to play the England Saxons at the Sportsground.

A week later, he received a call up to the Ireland Six Nations training squad.

With a new generation of young talent coming through the ranks adding to the big names joining in the summer, it is an exciting time for Connacht and McSharry is looking to build on the success he has already enjoyed at the province.

"I'm obviously delighted to sign for a further two years with Connacht,” he commented.

“These are exciting times in the club with the squad that's being built and the players coming through, not to mention new coach Pat Lam coming on board.

"On a personal level, it's been a big year for me getting my first Wolfhounds cap and being part of the senior Six Nations squad.

"I am still improving as a player and I feel Connacht is the best place for me to continue that progress, getting the chance to play in big games consistently and being part of a squad that is really developing and going places.”

It is under the stewardship of the outgoing Connacht head coach Eric Elwood that McSharry first came to prominence and the centre was fulsome in his praise of the former Ireland outhalf and his coaching staff.

"I would like to thank the departing Eric (Elwood), Billy (Millard) and Mike (Forshaw) for all the work they have put in with me over the last two years and I wish them all the best with their futures."