'One of the deadliest wingers in rugby' has decided his future

Jacob Stockdale has agreed to a contract extension that will keep him at Ulster until summer 2027. The winger last month made a return with Ireland but a hamstring injury in that match hasn’t prevented his province rewarding him for a fine run of form at the start of this season.

It was in early December when RugbyPass reported that Ulster were likely to win the race to retain Stockdale, who had been sounded out by Racing 92 and Lyon about a switch to the Top 14.

A Christmas Eve statement read: “Ulster are pleased to confirm that wing Jacob Stockdale has signed a new two-year deal. The 28-year-old is one of the most exciting wingers in Europe, renowned for his try-scoring prowess and commanding physicality.

“The Lurgan man has been in fine form for Ulster, with nine tries in 16 URC matches last season, and three in five so far this campaign, including a trademark chip and chase score against Vodacom Bulls in October.

“Stockdale recently made his 125th appearance for his home province and is now one of the longest serving senior players, having graduated into the senior men’s side from the academy, making his debut in 2016.

“He has been capped 38 times for Ireland and was named the player of the tournament in the 2018 Six Nations championship after scoring a record seven tries as Ireland took home the Grand Slam victory.”

Stockdale said: “I’m delighted to sign for the next couple of seasons here. I feel good about where my game is at and where this team is heading. There is a lot of excitement around the place with the young players coming up and I am enjoying my role as one of the experienced players in the team.

“There is no better feeling than scoring in front of our fans at Kingspan Stadium under the lights and I want to keep making special memories as a proud Ulsterman!"

Ulster general manager Bryn Cunningham added: “Securing Jacob’s future is key for us, given his importance in the team. It was no surprise to hear about interest in his signature from elsewhere, given his talent and special skillset.

“We believe we are seeing Jacob get back to the form he was showing before his long-term ankle injury a couple of years ago. He has showed great resilience and hard work to get back to that level of strength and fitness.

“A fit and confident Jacob is one of the deadliest wingers in rugby and we think the next couple of seasons will see the peak years of his career, both for Ulster and on the international stage in a green jersey.”