Wallabies prop Tetera Faulkner has re-signed with the Western Force for a further two seasons, tying him to the Perth-based franchise until 2017.

Faulkner began his career at the Force on an injury-cover contract in 2011, but he has since developed into a starting member of the squad.

The 26-year-old’s commitment comes at an important time for the Force, who will be looking to draft in another prop after Francois van Wyk was ruled out for the remainder of the season because of a torn pectoral.

Local club prop Joe Savage is on standby for Friday night’s clash with the Hurricanes in Perth.

Faulkner took a year away from rugby in 2009 to work as a labourer.

But his strong form for the Force in recent seasons earned him a Wallabies call-up last year for the end of the Rugby Championship and then the Spring Tour.

Faulkner made his Test debut in Australia’s 33-28 win over Wales at Cardiff’s Millennium Stadium, before earning a further cap against Ireland in Dublin.

He has now played 31 matches for the Force, and said he felt his development would be best served by staying in Perth.

“I know this is the best for me to be playing my rugby,” Faulkner said.

“We have a great bunch of boys and a great coaching staff which made this a pretty easy decision.

“It’s been fantastic to be a part of this team.

“There aren’t any egos, and everyone’s determined to play for each other.”

The Force will be aiming to rebound from their 18-6 loss to the Reds when they confront the unbeaten Hurricanes.

Winger Nick Cummins is a slim chance to play against the Hurricanes after arriving back in Perth from Japan over the weekend, but flanker Chris Alcock (ankle) will miss through injury.