Payne pens new deal at Ulster

Ulster fullback Jared Payne has signed a new three-year deal with the province that will see him remain at Ravenhill until at least the summer of 2016.

Twenty-seven-year-old Payne was today selected in the Barbarians squad to face England and the British and Irish Lions. He joined Ulster from the Auckland Blues two years ago.

His first season with Ulster was cut-short after just three matches when he snapped his Achilles tendon, but he has been outstanding for the province in this campaign, scoring eight tries and adding considerable attacking flair to Ulster’s back line.

Commenting on Payne’s new contract, Ulster’s Director of Rugby, David Humphreys, admitted it was pleasing to see the New Zealander commit to the province.

“Jared is an exceptional player who is as dynamic with ball-in-hand as he is rock solid in defence.

“He is a hugely important member of our squad and I am delighted that he has committed to Ulster for a further three years.”

Speaking about the new deal, Payne insisted the time he has spent at Ulster to date made it an easy decision to stay at Ravenhill.

“I am really enjoying my rugby here at Ulster so I am pleased to be staying for another three years.

“We have a fantastic squad of players and we play a great brand of rugby. It has been a successful season so far and hopefully we can finish the campaign off with some silverware.”