Henderson started both of Ireland's Tests in Argentina last summer.

Henderson started both of Ireland's Tests in Argentina last summer.

ULSTER AND THE IRFU have announced that Iain Henderson has signed a new three-year deal to remain with the province until at least the summer of 2018.

The 22-year-old, who has played both lock and blindside flanker at international level, has already racked up 41 appearances for Ulster, while he won his 14th Ireland cap last weekend against France.

A rare physical specimen in Irish rugby, the former Belfast Royal Academy student is a product of the Ulster academy and shone at the 2012 Junior World Championship, his second year playing at that level.

A senior Ireland debut followed in 2012, as Henderson appeared against South Africa in Dublin.

Henderson is currently involved in Ireland’s Six Nations campaign under Joe Schmidt and has been used off the bench in the victories over Italy and France, showing his dynamic power and ever-improving breakdown skills on both occasions.

I am delighted to have signed for another three seasons and I am aiming to be an integral part of the team going forward,” said Henderson of his new three-year contract.

“As a proud Ulsterman it remains a massive honour to play for Ulster Rugby. By signing a new contract, it allows me to focus on achieving my personal goals alongside the ambitions here at Kingspan Stadium. I am very much looking forward to the next three years.”

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Ulster team manager Bryn Cunningham shared the province’s delight at having completed negotiations with Henderson, who he believes is “without doubt one of the most exciting young players in European Rugby.”

Meanwhile, Ulster has announced a new four-year shirt sponsorship deals with Kingspan and Bank of Ireland.

Kingspan will become the main jersey sponsor, while Bank of Ireland will retain its position as an official sponsor with branding on the back of the playing shirts. Last year, Kingspan agreed a ten-year stadium naming rights deal with Ulster.