The 27-year-old's most recent appearances for Ireland came in the summer against Argentina, where he played at both inside and outside centre.
So far in the GUINNESS PRO12 this season, Cave has been positioned at 13 and last weekend helped his side back up victory over Zebre with a 26-9 win away to the Cardiff Blues.
And by proving his worth with Ulster to remind Ireland head coach Joe Schmidt of his abilities, Cave believes he has a good chance of being in his squad next year.
"From my point of view I want to play as many games as I can for Ulster," Cave told the Irish Times.
"The big picture is I want to go to the World Cup in 12 months and if I can play two positions I've a slightly bigger chance of going there.
"In the past, particularly with Ireland, when I haven't been selected for Ulster I almost rule myself from being on the (Irish) bench if I'm only covering 13.
"If you're a winger at least you're covering two wings and possibly fullback. If you are only covering 13, it means that unless the 13 you have covers the back three you are not going to be in the squad."
Follow us on Facebook, join the conversation on Twitter, sign up to our YouTube channel for extensive match highlights and sign up for our newsletter for regular updates on the GUINNESS PRO12.
Guinness PRO12 Ulster News
63x46.png){kind=logo}