Ireland Rugby: Bondi Ackie, Dan Sheehan, Jamison Gibson Park and Josh van der Flier extend contracts

Ake has been an influential figure in the Irish national team since making his debut in 2017 after qualifying through the residency rule.

He has won 69 Ireland caps, three Six Nations titles and in 2023 was nominated for the World Rugby Player of the Year award.

The 35-year-old missed the first three matches of the Six Nations after serving a four-match ban for “verbal abuse and disrespect” towards match officials following Connacht’s loss to Leinster earlier this year.

Van der Flier, 32, who was named the 2022 World Rugby Player of the Year, has committed to his future after finding his best form during the Six Nations.

Gibson-Park, who made his 50th cap for Ireland against Wales earlier this month, has signed a contract until 2028.

The 34-year-old midfielder enjoyed the Six Nations Premiership and was player of the match in Ireland’s 42-21 thrashing of England at Twickenham last month.

Meanwhile, Sheehan has emerged as one of Ireland’s most consistent players since making her debut at Test level in 2021.

The 27-year-old has scored 18 tries in 39 caps and captained Ireland to last year’s Triple Crown win over Wales in the absence of Caelan Dorries.

“You cannot understate the outstanding contributions of these four players to Irish rugby over many years,” said head coach Andy Farrell.

He added: “Seeing their future here is a huge boost, and I have no doubt it will delight Ireland fans around the world.”

“They are all master leaders who put their bodies on the line time and time again to reach the highest standards on the field.”