Iain Henderson signs contract extension with IRFU and Ulster

Iain Henderson has agreed a two-year contract extension with the IRFU, which will keep him at Ulster until the summer of 2025.

The Ulster captain's central contract had been due to expire after the upcoming Rugby World Cup in France, but he's ended speculation of a move abroad by signing a two-year extension.

The 31-year-old has endured a difficult run of injuries in recent seasons, missing out on last summer's Test series win against New Zealand, as well as the Autumn Nations Series due to a knee injury and an ongoing thumb issue which required surgery.

Henderson has also been sidelined since March, after suffering a fractured forearm in the Round 4 Guinness Six Nations win against Scotland at Murrayfield.

"I am delighted to sign with the IRFU and Ulster for another two seasons and look forward to continuing my journey in Ireland," Henderson said.

"It is an incredible honour pulling on my provincial and international colours and I believe that there is more to come as we look to build in the months ahead."

IRFU Performance Director David Nucifora added: "Iain has developed into an important leader within both the Ireland and Ulster environments and we are delighted to have ensured that he continues his career in Ireland. I have no doubt that he will continue to add positively to both environments in the months and years to come."

Henderson has won 72 caps for Ireland since his debut against South Africa in 2012, playing his part in four Six Nations titles.

The Craigavon native has also made 139 appearances for Ulster, succeeding Rory Best as the province's captain in 2019.