Connacht head coach Pat Lam has signed a three-year deal that will keep him at the province until the summer of 2018.

The New Zealander took charge of Connacht in 2013 and has overseen an excellent 2014/15 season thus far.

Connacht are currently sixth in the Guinness Pro 12, which would be enough for a playoff place in next season's European Rugby Champions Cup.

"I am thrilled that I will be with Connacht Rugby for a further three years as we strive towards achieving great things," he said.

We have a vision here to be 'world class' in everything we do so we can grow and promote the game out West and ensure everyone involved has the best opportunity to achieve their goals. We believe that we are certainly on the right track with all the good work that has been done over the years by many people. To be a part of it is very exciting."

Recently, Lam spoke to Off The Ball about the philosophies he and his backroom team have implemented at the Sportsground: