Daily Mirror (Northern Ireland)
SLAM HEROES WANT MORE
IT WAS straight back to business after Grand Slam glory – as the Ireland trio still to agree new central IRFU contracts signed on the dotted line.
Veteran two-time Slam winners Rory Best and Rob Kearney have signed up to and including the World Cup in Japan, which takes place between September and November next year.
The announcement of those deals yesterday was followed in the afternoon by confirmation that Iain Henderson had agreed a three-year contract extension for Ireland and Ulster until at least June 2021.
Of the trio, Henderson’s future plans were the least predictable as, before Christmas, he had mentioned the attraction of a move abroad.
But, as with Best and Kearney, the 26-year-old would have noted that Simon Zebo was not considered for selection after revealing he was moving to France at the end of the season.
And with a World Cup on the
horizon, Henderson ultimately wanted to remain in the frame for that, even if the prospects for success with Ulster – in the short term at least – appear slim.
Henderson said: “I am extremely confident that with both Ulster and Ireland, we will continue to meet those challenges head on.
“There is currently some exciting talent throughout Ulster and Irish rugby and it is my ambition to continue to push for further honours at both provincial and national levels.
“As a proud Ulster man, I have always stated my desire to help Ulster secure lasting success and a legacy that mirrors that of our neighbouring provinces.
“I’m extremely thankful to my family, friends and everyone for their support and the commitment by the IRFU with a three-year contract which will allow me to achieve my goals.”
For Best, the contract announcement capped an historic week after leading the Ireland squad to the Grand Slam at Twickenham last
Saturday.
The win over England was his 111th game for Ireland.
“Unlike nine years ago, the last time the Slam was won by Ireland, he had a central role to play as the first-choice hooker and as Joe Schmidt’s captain.
Best took over the captaincy three years ago and, in the recent past, has led Ireland to a firstever victory over the All Blacks and a first ever win in South Africa.
“I’m in a very privileged position as captain of Ireland and Ulster to be involved with two groups of incredibly talented players,” Best said.
“I feel I can continue to make a contribution to both Ireland and Ulster Rugby and am delighted to have extended my IRFU contract to the next World Cup.”