Tuesday 14 February 2017 19:10, UK
Jamie Heaslip has signed a new contract with Ireland to take him through to the end of the 2019 World Cup.
The Leinster No 8 is playing in his 10th Six Nations championship this year, and is a leading contender for the British and Irish Lions tour of New Zealand this summer.
Heaslip said: "I'm delighted to be given the opportunity to continue to represent Leinster and Ireland.
"My aim when I started my professional rugby career was to leave the jersey - either the blue of Leinster or the green of Ireland - in a better place than when I first put it on and this new contract gives me the chance to continue to chase this dream.
"As with each and every professional rugby player we don't do this alone and so I would like to thank my wife Sheena for supporting me always and all the coaches, fellow rugby players and supporters who have helped me live my boyhood dream - of going to work daily with a rugby ball in my hand."
IRFU performance director David Nucifora said: "He is a leader for both his country and province and delivers a high level of performance every time he pulls on the green or blue jersey."
