Ulster lock in trio, including two rising stars and an Ireland international

Irish province Ulser have locked in a trio of Christmas signing, with two rising stars and a fully-fledged Ireland international among them.

Scrumhalf Nathan Doak, Ireland centre Stuart McCloskey and speedster Ethan McIlroy are the latest players to commit their futures to URC side.

Scrum-half Nathan Doak has piqued the interest of Ulster supporters since making his senior Ulster debut against Munster in December 2020, eleven years to the day before he ran out as a mascot against the same opposition.

The 20-year-old Irish U20s international has signed a four-year contract that will keep him at Kingspan Stadium until at least the summer of 2026.

McCloskey, a staple in Ulster matchday squads, has nearly 150 appearances for his province and has been recognized internationally through his regular call-ups to the Ireland squad each season.

McIlroy broke onto the forefront in December 2019 when he made his debut against Leinster. The former Irish U20s player from Belfast has been rewarded with a new three-year senior deal, which will keep him with the province until at least the end of the season.

Head Coach Dan McFarland said: “To have three Ulster-born players sign long-term for the upcoming seasons is testament to their commitment to the province they developed their game in.

“With Stuart having established himself as a strong defender, ball-carrier and play-maker, while Nathan and Ethan are two exciting young prospects who have already proven themselves at a senior level, it’s clear that all three will play an important role in our ambitions as a club in the upcoming seasons.”