Prop Tom Botha has signed a new two-year deal to extend his stay at the Ospreys.
The South African-born tighthead signed for the Ospreys in the summer of 2018, having played for the Cheetahs back in South Africa.
Botha, 29, is a popular and respected member of the Ospreys squad, playing 26 games in his first season at the Liberty Stadium, more than any other player.
"I have really enjoyed my time in Wales and really grown fond of the country and it's people," said Botha.
"The Ospreys are really strong on family and, outside from being in South Africa, it feels like being in a family and I really enjoy that, and have made some really good mates here in the squad.
"I'm loving every second of being here and being in this environment, but obviously we are in a tough place with the results but with the talent and experience in this squad it will turn around soon.
"I have full confidence in the Ospreys and what the plans are going forward.
"And I am excited about working with coach Duncan Jones on my trade and would like to thank everyone at the Ospreys for this opportunity and for making this all happen for me."
After stints plying his trade in South Africa and France, Botha has earned a reputation for being a destructive scrummager, standing at 1.79m tall and weighing in at 114kg.
Botha has played Super Rugby and established a formidable reputation in the Guinness PRO14 before he signed for the Ospreys. He recently underwent an operation on his toe after picking up an injury against Saracens in the first round of the Heineken Champions Cup Pool.
He has set his sights on a return to fitness with the Ospreys in March.
"The Ospreys medical team have been awesome and have helped me immensely in managing and taking me through my rehab" said Botha.
"I am grateful for all of their help and guidance.
"I'm hoping to be back around the beginning of March and it has been frustrating not being able to play a part and not being able to help the boys and the team out.
"It's hard watching from the sidelines when all you want to do is get involved and play your part."
Dan Griffiths, Ospreys Rugby General Manager, said Botha's re-signing was a positive statement by the region.
"We signed Tom for his reputation as a powerful scrummager and he has certainly delivered in that area," said Griffiths.
"He is an honest, hard-working, experienced front row forward who always puts a shift in for us.
"We know how critical a solid platform at scrum time is for your attacking game, and the front row, as always, is an area you need a depth of resource and quality. Tom has provided us with that at tighthead and is a valuable member of the squad."
Tom Botha is sponsored by XBLOX
