Rob Herring and Sam Crean pen contract extensions with Ulster

Herring will be at the province until 2027 with Crean penning a new deal until 2028.

CONTRACT EXTENSIONS: Ulster confirm that forwards Rob Herring and Sam Crean have penned contract extensions with the province. 

Ulster confirm that forwards Rob Herring and Sam Crean have penned contract extensions with the province.

Hooker Herring is Ulster's record appearance holder penned new contract to keep him at the province until 2027. The Cape Town born hooker has been one of the leaders for Ulster and has made over 250 appearances to date making his debut back in 2012.

The 35-year-old has made 43 appearances for Ireland. He is Ulster's most experienced hooker, a strong threat in set pieces, in the lineout and scrummaging. 

Herring is delighted to extend his stay at Ulster “I’m delighted to be re-signing with Ulster. This club and supporters have given me so much over the years and feels like an adopted home for me and my family.

"The hunger to keep improving, competing, and pushing this team forward is as strong as ever. With the group we have, I’m incredibly excited about what lies ahead and grateful for the continued trust Ulster has shown in me.”

Loosehead prop Crean joined Ulster on a permanent basis from Gallagher Premiership side Saracens last summer following a load stint and has extended his time with the province until 2028.

The 25-year-old has been a key player this season in both the URC and Challenge Cup. 

Crean has settled in the province and happy to pen a new extension. 

“I’m very happy to be extending with Ulster Rugby for another two years. I feel I have settled in really well with the squad and that’s given me confidence to kick on. We are playing exciting rugby, the atmosphere is great around the team, and I’ve personally enjoyed getting more game time this season.

"My aim is to keep progressing and put my hand up for selection each week."

Rory Best, Ulster Rugbys General Manager, is delighted to get Herrings and Creans signatures on the dotted line. 

“We are very pleased to announce that Rob and Sam will remain Ulstermen for the future. Rob is such a key member of the dressing room with his leadership, experience and his consistent ability.

"Rob makes others around him better and we are delighted to be extending his time here and know that he will be extending his appearance record into unknown territory!

"Sam has impressed the coaching staff with his attitude and his performances this season. He adds vital competition at loosehead, and we believe he is progressing well in his development as a front row forward.”