Ireland captain Rory Best and full-back Rob Kearney have signed new contracts with the Irish Rugby Football Union until the 2019 World Cup in Japan. Ulster's Best said: "I am in a very privileged position as captain of Ireland and Ulster to be involved with two groups of incredibly talented players. "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. Bryn Cunningham, Operations Director at Ulster Rugby, said: "Rory will go down as one of the most successful Ireland captains in history. "I am delighted to have extended my IRFU contract and look forward to continuing to achieve with this Ireland squad," the Leinster double British and Irish Lions tourist said.

Source: Evening echo March 20, 2018 10:18 UTC