ON the eve of his 100th cap a host of Irish celebrities and sporting stars have led tributes to Ireland rugby captain Rory Best.
The Ulster veteran will lead out his country against Australia in Dublin tomorrow.
Ahead of the occasion some of the most well-known faces in Ireland have wished the Banbridge man well for his big day, including Rory McIlroy, Niall Horan and Carl Frampton.
Congts to @RoryBest2 on 100 caps from @McIlroyRory @NiallOfficial @StevenDavis8 & @RealCFrampton @IrishRugby @UlsterRugby #BESTY100 #IREvAUS pic.twitter.com/Xoj9mEY5sY — Esportif (@Esportif) November 24, 2016
Rory McIlroy hailed the 34-year-old's milestone as an "amazing achievement" in a video.
"I know how much hard work and effort you've put in over the years to get to this point. I hope it all goes well for you and congrats again. Unbelievable," he said.
Final messages to @RoryBest2 from @StephenFerris6 @DarrenClarke60 @BrianODriscoll and Family. @IrishRugby @UlsterRugby #BESTY100 #IREvAUS pic.twitter.com/wb7GYQBihA — Esportif (@Esportif) November 24, 2016
Former One Direction band member Niall Horan said Best had been "an absolutely incredible captain and a great ambassador for our country".
"Here's to many more games and many more Irish rugby memories,"he said.
World champion boxer Carl Frampton said had been a "huge inspiration" for Ulster and Ireland over the years, but joked he was the second best Best behind George.
"At least you're better than your brother," he quipped.
"All the best big man and can't believe you got your face on them buses instead of me, absolutely disgraceful," the north Belfast fighter added.
There were also tributes from current and former team-mates including Andrew Trimble, Stephen Ferris and Brian O'Driscoll, while praise also came from Ryder Cup golf captain Darren Clarke and Northern Ireland footballer Steven Davis.
Wife Jodie and their children also made an emotional testimonial ahead of tomorrow's match.
"I hope you know how proud we are of you. We know how many sacrifices that you've had to make and how much hard work you've put in to reach this milestone," Jodie said.
Son Ben added: "You're our hero and when I grow up and when I grow up I want to be a rugby player just like you".
