Ulster's most-capped player Rob Herring signs new deal as Henderson also staying put

LAST UPDATE | 18 hrs ago

ULSTER HEAD COACH Richie Murphy has moved to add a little bit more stability to the Ulster project by securing the service of hooker Rob Herring, a one-year extension to his contract keeping him at the northern province until at least 2026.

Iain Henderson is also staying put with a two-year deal which will keep him with the club until 2027.

The Cape Town born hooker Herring became Ulster’s most-capped player when he made his 230^thcap last season against Munster at Kingspan Stadium.

Herring is a key man for club and country, having made over 40 caps for Ireland on the international stage, winning a Grand Slam and playing in the 2023 Rugby World Cup.

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

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“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.”

Ulster Rugby’s head of recruitment and rugby operations, Bryn Cunningham, added, “Rob is a hugely influential player within the squad. He is someone who can lead and demands respect in the dressing room.

“When he plays you can see the experience he brings and the quality in his work, particularly at set-piece. We have a number of young hookers in the squad and there aren’t many better players to learn from and compete for minutes with than Rob.

“His leadership and mentorship will be vital in pushing Ulster forwards, as we look to develop a very competitive team.”

Henderson has surpassed 150 caps for Ulster since making his debut back in April 2012.

An Ireland international, he has made over 80 caps for Ireland, having been a key member of five Six Nations Championship victories and three Rugby World Cup campaigns.

He has also featured on British and Irish Lions tours, in 2017 and 2021.

“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.

“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.”