Ireland international back-row Nick Timoney has put pen to paper on a new two-year contract extension with Ulster, despite interest from other big clubs.

The new deal will keep him in an Ulster jersey until at least 2027.

Timoney has cemented himself as one of the key players in the Ulster team, with his dominant performances in the back-row making him a vital cog in the team.

A key player

The 29-year-old is known for his tenacious work-rate around the breakdown and his power game, with an ability to break opposition lines and score crucial tries.

His quality and leadership were to the fore last week, captaining the team and delivering a Player of the Match performance to secure a key win over Connacht.

Timoney’s eye-catching showings have seen him become a regular part of Ireland’s international squad in recent years, having made his bow against USA in 2021.

“Agreeing terms with Nick before the Christmas period was a high priority for us, and we are delighted that he is fully invested in what we are trying to build here,” said Ulster Rugby’s General Manager, Bryn Cunningham.

URC Team of the Week: Springboks powerhouse ‘impressively dominant’ since injury return as Ireland’s ‘rising star’ lays down Six Nations marker

“Nick is one of the most well-rounded back-row players in Europe and it’s been no surprise to hear about interest in him from other big clubs.

“His journey from the Academy, Sevens, to playing for the ‘A’ team and breaking into the senior side has been full of hard work and dedication, and that has helped him develop into the athlete we see today.

“He is someone that is a standard-setter to those around him and is a very popular member of the senior squad because of the attitude, commitment and leadership he puts in every week, and he will be a key part of this team’s future.”

Since his making his debut, Timoney has amassed over 150 caps for the province and is thrilled to have secured his future at the United Rugby Championship side.

Feels at home

“I’m delighted to sign a new deal with Ulster. I feel very at home here and believe we have the squad to develop and become better in the years ahead,” he said.

“We have some young talent coming through that adds to our group of experienced players and that is something that both excites and motivates you for the seasons ahead.

“I’ve said I want to keep progressing as a player and I fully believe I can become the best I can be here at Ulster.”

READ MORE: ‘It can end people’s careers’ – Ospreys coach’s candid assessment on croc-roll against Cardiff

Src: Planetrugby.com - https://www.planetrugby.com/news/ireland-back-row-inks-new-deal-despite-interest-from-other-big-clubs