Ulster confirm new deals for two Ireland internationals

Ulster have announced that captain Iain Henderson and hooker Rob Herring have signed new deals with the province.

First up in a busy day of deals was Ireland's 42-cap hooker Rob Herring, who signed a one-year contract extension until 2026, which will take his stint in Belfast to 14 years after the South African-born front-row joined from Western Province in 2012.

The 34-year-old is currently on international duty, where he featured from the bench in Ireland's recent win over Argentina at the Aviva Stadium.

“I’m delighted to sign with the club for another year," Herring said. "Belfast feels like home to me now and it’s always an honour to wear the jersey.

"I’m enjoying my role as one of the experienced players in an exciting young squad. I look forward to competing on the pitch but also helping the next generation come through.

"There’s a lot of excitement around the squad at the moment and hopefully plenty more special days ahead.”

Henderson's deal was announced just hours later, with the second-row, whose contract with the IRFU expires next year, penning a two-year deal with Ulster, which will take him to 2027.

The 82-cap Ireland international, 32, has been with Herring in the national set-up this month, coming off the bench in the defeat to the All Blacks.

“I’m delighted to sign with Ulster Rugby for another two years and feel energised about leading this group, which can keep growing in the months to come," the British and Irish Lion said.

"We are building a team with a new core of players coming through the ranks and I believe there is the talent and experience to drive us forward.

"As a proud Ulsterman, I love playing for the club and I’m excited for us going forward.”