ULSTER CAPTAIN RORY Best has committed himself to the province after signing a two-year contract extension with the Irish Rugby Football Union.
The new deal will see the 33-year-old remain at the Kingspan Stadium until June 2018.
Best has represented the province 172 times since making his senior debut against Munster over a decade ago. He is also Ireland’s most-capped hooker having played 89 for his country.
His contract was set to expire this summer but Best says he now wants to help Ulster deliver ‘on the promise’ they’ve shown and reward the fans.
“I am very happy to have signed a two year Irish contract to remain with Ulster Rugby,” he said. “It is a great honour to play for Ulster and Ireland and I am privileged to have the opportunity to captain this talented group of Ulster players.”
Best is widely regarded as Paul O’Connell’s successor as Ireland captain and is tipped to lead Joe Schmidt’s side in next year’s Six Nations.
The hooker started every game of Ireland’s successful 2014 and 2015 campaigns as well as playing in all but one of the World Cup outings.
“Rory contributes so much to Irish rugby both on and off the field,” David Nucifora, IRFU Performance Director, commented.
“He is a model professional who has consistently performed at the top level for both club and country. We are delighted to have secured his services for a further two years.”
