DarrenCave

Biography

In a playing career stretching from 2007-2019, Darren represented both Ulster Rugby and Ireland.

Known as a strong runner and hard tackling centre, Darren made a rapid progression at international level, having helped Ireland U20s win the Grand Slam during 2007 Six Nations Championship. He also represented Ireland’s at 7s and Ireland ‘A’ as they won the 2009 Churchill Cup. He was included in Ireland’s extended 2009 Six Nations squad and won his first international cap against Canada in May 2009.

Ulster made the Heineken Cup final for just the second time in their history, but they lost to Leinster in the 2012 Heineken Cup Final at Twickenham. Darren’s form was recognised with an international call up for the summer tour to New Zealand in June 2012 where he won his third cap. Darren then scored a brilliant individual try for an Ireland XV side that played Fiji at Thomond Park November 2012 Autumn Test series. He also toured the USA and Canada with Ireland in 2013, playing in both matches and scoring a try against Canada.

Darren scored five tries the following season and was a stand-out player for the province as Ulster won all six of their Heineken Cup Pool matches and reached the PRO12 Play Off. His form was rewarded with a place on the Ireland tour to Argentina where he played in both test matches.

In the summer of 2014 Darren was included in Ireland’s summer tour and played twice against Argentina. He made his eighth Irish appearance in the comprehensive 49-7 victory over Georgia in the November 2014 Autumn Series.

Darren’s international career highlight was making the Ireland 2015 RWC squad and played against Romania at Wembley Stadium in London.

In 2017 Darren won his 200th Ulster cap in an away inter-pro fixture against Connacht, and retired after Cap 228 at the end of the 2018-2019 season.

Away from rugby Darren is married with a young daughter, and is busy working in the commercial and financial industries. He has established a well know coffee and donut business in Belfast, known as Guilt Trip, a favourite haunt for many Ulster players and fans alike.

Darren has also developed a reputation as a knowledgeable rugby pundit, and appears regular on the Rugby Pod and has also worked with BBC Sport. He is an excellent MC/event host and has worked with Ulster Rugby, Openreach and various commercial partners.