Ireland's Henderson and Herring extend Ulster deals

Ireland internationals Iain Henderson and Rob Herring have signed contract extensions with Ulster.

Henderson's new deal means the Ulster captain will move off his central Irish Rugby Football Union [IRFU] contract at the end of the season and on to a provincial deal until 2027.

Herring's new deal will keep the hooker at the Belfast-based club until 2026.

Henderson, who has won 82 Ireland caps, said he feels "energised" about continuing to lead Ulster, who are in their first full season under head coach Richie Murphy.

"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," said five-time Six Nations winner Henderson.

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

Second row Henderson, 32, has won 150 Ulster caps after making his debut in 2012.

In addition to his success with Ireland, he is a two-time British and Irish Lions tourist, having been selected for the 2017 and 2021 squads.

Herring, the province's most-capped player, said he was "delighted" to agree a new deal with Ulster as "Belfast feels like home to me".

"It's always an honour to wear the jersey and I'm enjoying my role as one of the experienced players in an exciting young squad," said the 2023 Six Nations Grand Slam winner.

"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."

Earlier this week, Ulster centre Stewart Moore signed a contract extension until 2027.

Ulster return to action on 29 November when they host Leinster in the United Rugby Championship, their first game in a month because of the autumn internationals.