Rugby

Rory Best and Rob Kearney sign new IRFU deal

Ireland's two time Grand Slam winners Rory Best and Rob Kearney have both signed contract extensi...

Off The Ball

Rugby

Off The Ball

Ireland's two time Grand Slam winners Rory Best and Rob Kearney have both signed contract extensions with the IRFU.

Kearney's new contract runs until November 2019 while the Ulster man will be playing for club and country until the end of the Rugby World Cup 2019 in Japan.

Best has captained Ireland to a first win over the Springboks in South Africa, a first win against New Zealand and to the Grand Slam last Saturday.

Breaking News: @RoryBest2 signs IRFU contract extension to the end of the Rugby World Cup 2019 in Japan.

He has captained Ireland to a 1st win over the Springboks in South Africa, a 1st win against New Zealand and to the Grand Slam on Saturday.#ShoulderToShoulder pic.twitter.com/1MT5tSeDfn

— Irish Rugby (@IrishRugby) March 20, 2018

Best spoke of his delight at extending his current deal: “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.

"Support of family, friends and supporters is a hugely important element for any professional sportsperson and I would like to thank everyone for their support but specifically my wife Jodie who has been incredible and has ensured that as a family we have been able to share in all the great memories of the last few years.”

The veteran hooker is Ireland's third most capped player, having made 111 appearances for his country.

Only Brian O'Driscoll and Ronan O'Gara have played more games for Ireland than Best.

The 35-year-old has was won of only two players to feature in both Grand Slam winning teams, Best along with Rob Kearney was involved in the 2009 success in Cardiff.

He has won the Six Nations on four occasions in 2009, 2014, 2015, and 2018 as well as winning the Triple Crown in 2007, 2009, 2018.

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