Six Nations: Cian Healy and Mike Ross sign Irish deals

Published on 31/01/2013 00:35

IRELAND props Cian Healy and Mike Ross have signed new contracts with the Irish Rugby Football Union.

The Leinster duo, who start Saturday’s RBS Six Nations opener against Wales, have committed to Leinster five days after Jonathan Sexton confirmed he was leaving Dublin for an overseas club. Healy, 25, has penned a three-year deal until 2016 while Ross, 33, has agreed fresh terms that expire in 2015.

“It’s a very strong sign for Irish rugby to have such important players to both the Leinster and Ireland teams committing their futures to remain playing here,” IRFU chief executive Philip Browne said. “The market for players continues to be competitive but the IRFU will continue to work to retain the best players in Ireland.”

The move by two key members of Ireland’s squad has eased concerns that a number of Test players could leave for France. Sexton is expected to join Racing Metro in the summer on a £640,000-a-season contract with his Leinster colleague Rob Kearney claiming his move would test the waters for others. Kearney’s own deal with the IRFU expires this season, but it was announced this week that Munster back row Peter O’Mahony would be staying at Limerick until 2015.