Four Ireland internationals among quintet of new deals at Ulster

Ulster have tied down five players until at least 2030, with Ireland internationals Jacob Stockdale, Tom O’Toole and Nick Timoney among those signing new deals.

James Hume and Ethan McIlroy have also committed their futures to the province, with the quintet having come through Ulster’s pathway and academy system and collectively amassed more than 650 appearances.

Stockdale, O’Toole and Timoney are all part of Ireland’s squad for the Nations Championship campaign after featuring during the Six Nations.

O’Toole, 28, has won 24 caps for Ireland and has added another dimension to his game this season by moving across the front-row to loosehead after spending most of his career at tighthead.

Stockdale has 43 caps and reached 150 Ulster appearances against Munster, while Timoney, capped 14 times, has continued to establish himself in Andy Farrell’s plans.

Hume, who has three Ireland caps, and McIlroy have also been rewarded following spells with long-term knee injuries. Both have returned to form and were selected in an Ireland XV squad to face Fiji A later this month.

Ulster general manager Rory Best said securing the group was particularly significant for Richie Murphy’s squad.

“We are very pleased to have secured the futures of James, Ethan, Tom, Jacob and Nick for the next three seasons.

“All five play an important role in our senior squad with their consistency in performance and experience. They are an integral part of our team, and I know all five are extremely ambitious in their goals for the future.”

Best also highlighted the resilience shown by the group following setbacks throughout their careers.

“One thing that all these guys have shown – they are all remarkably resilient,” he added.

“They are great ambassadors for Ulster Rugby and play with a commitment and passion that all of our supporters can resonate with.”