\n<\/p>\n
Ulster lock Cormac Izuchukwu says “pride in the province” is what helps make Irish derbies special as the side prepare to take on Connacht this weekend.<\/b><\/p>\n
Richie Murphy’s side travel to the Dexcom Stadium on Saturday (17:30 GMT) for what is their second of three games in a row against Irish rivals in the United Rugby Championship (URC).<\/p>\n
The northern province are looking to bounce back following a narrow 24-20 loss against Leinster last time.<\/p>\n
The home side, meanwhile, come into the match off the back of a loss comprehensive reverse against Dragons.<\/p>\n
“Connacht away, Leinster away and Munster at home, they are special,” Izuchukwu told BBC Sport NI.<\/p>\n
“There is something about them, they are class to play in.<\/p>\n
“For me it is having pride in the province, going down there and showing what we are about.”<\/p>\n
Izuchukwu, who has not played since early October because of a recurring foot injury followed by an illness last week, has just signed a new two-year contract to keep him at Ulster until the summer of 2028<\/a>.<\/p>\n The 25-year-old second row added that he has “grown as a person and a player” since joining the Ulster academy in 2020.<\/p>\n “It has been on my mind for a while now, so really happy to get it done and to get back to playing rugby,” Izuchukwu continued.<\/p>\n “I came here back in 2020, I didn’t have many options, and they gave me a chance. I came here, have made friends and have grown as a person and a player.<\/p>\n “I have made great memories here and, for me, with how the club is growing I am so happy to be here.”<\/p>\n<\/div>\n