Ireland interim head coach Simon Easterby received a boost on Monday with the news that front row duo Tadhg Furlong and Andrew Porter have both signed two-year contract extensions with the IRFU and Leinster.
Easterby will take charge of the reigning champions when they being the defence of their Six Nations title in February while current head coach Andy Farrell is on duty with the British & Irish Lions.
Tighthead prop Furlong made his Ireland debut against Wales in 2015 and has made 78 Test appearances for his country, winning three Six Nations titles.
He has also featured on Lions tours in 2017 and 2021.
“To get the chance to continue my playing career in Ireland with my home province is a dream come true,” Furlong said.
I am delighted to extend my long association with both Leinster Rugby and the IRFU for the seasons to come. Since the beginning of my career I have aimed to contribute positively in a winning environment and I believe that there are bright times to come for club and country.”
IRFU Performance Director, David Humphreys said: “Tadhg is a world-class tighthead whose influence transcends his abilities on the field.
“Since breaking into the Leinster and Ireland set-ups he has set a new standard as a prop and his hunger to improve and perform at a consistently high level sets him apart.
Loosehead Porter has made 70 Test appearances for Ireland since making his debut in 2017 against the USA.
He has also won three Six Nations titles and is exciting to be part of a set-up which is consistently bring through new talent.
“Playing in Ireland is something that I never take for granted and I am delighted to commit my future to my home Province Leinster and Ireland.
“There is a huge amount of talent coming through the system at provincial and international levels and it is a privilege to work with such a talented group of coaches and players.
“I believe that the level of competition will drive us all on as we bid for success in the months and years to come and I am proud that I will have the chance to be a play in the Irish system for the next number of seasons.”
Humphreys added: “Andrew is an outstanding world-class talent and it is a huge statement of intent that he has committed his future to both Leinster and the IRFU.
“He has maintained a consistently high level of performance for club and country and his durability means that he is a key figure in Irish Rugby and will continue to be so for the next few seasons.
We are delighted that Andrew has signed a new deal and look forward to him taking the next steps forward in his career in the years to come.
“Today’s announcement underpins the IRFU’s commitment to retaining top talent and in ensuring that the best Irish players will continue to play at home.