Rob Herring: Ireland hooker signs one-year Ulster extension

Ireland hooker Rob Herring has signed a one-year contract extension that will keep him at Ulster until 2026.

Since joining Ulster in 2012, Herring has become the province’s most-capped player.

The 34-year-old has won 42 caps for Ireland and helped Andy Farrell’s side to the Six Nations Grand Slam in 2023.

South African-born Herring 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,” he said.

“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.”

Bryn Cunningham, head of recruitment and rugby operations at Ulster, added that Herring is a “hugely influential player”.

“He is someone who can lead and demands respect in the dressing room.

“We have a number of young hookers in the squad and there aren’t many better players to learn from and compete for minutes with than Rob.

“His leadership and mentorship will be vital in pushing Ulster forwards, as we look to develop a very competitive team.”