Ulster retain front row duo

Ulster have strengthened their long-term front row options with the news that Callum Black and Rob Herring have signed contract extensions keeping them at the club until 2015.

Black is an Irish qualified prop who signed from Championship side Worcester Warriors ahead of the 2011/12 season. He suffered with a neck injury in his first campaign with the province but has featured in seven games already this season, bringing his total tally to 16 appearances. He will provide long-term competition for Tom Court and Paddy McAllister for the starting loosehead prop position.

South African hooker Rob Herring, who represented Maties and Western Province in the Varsity Cup and Vodacom Cup respectively, is also Irish qualified and has committed his future to the club after signing for an initial one-year period. So far this season he has battled it out with Nigel Brady for the role as back up to Ireland’s first-choice Rory Best. He has made six competitive appearances for Ulster to date, including two Pro12 starts.

Commenting on the contract extensions, Director of Rugby, David Humphreys, said: “We have demonstrated the importance of having a strong squad so far this season with a large number of players contributing to an unbeaten start.

“The signings of Callum and Rob on long-term deals is a boost to the club and both will play an important part as we aim to build a squad capable of challenging for silverware in both the Pro12 and European Cup.”

Herring said: “I’m delighted. I’ve settled in really well and it was quite an easy decision in the end. To be honest, when I first signed I didn’t think I would get such a good run of games but I want to keep improving every week and use the opportunities that I get to make an impact.

“I’m glad to be part of the team, we are building something big. We are aiming to win silverware in both competitions and we will be working hard towards that.

Black added: “I had a difficult first season with Ulster, getting injured at the start, but I’ve recovered and have thoroughly enjoyed being part of a successful Ulster squad.

“We did well last year, reaching the final of the European Cup. But this season we really believe we can get into the top four in the Pro12 and into the knockout stages of the European Cup again.”