IRFU confirm Paddy Jackson and Stuart Olding’s contracts have been revoked

The departure of the pair was confirmed following an internal review of their conduct and behaviour as shown in the recent Belfast rape trial. Jackson and Olding were both found not guilty of rape and were acquitted of all charges. The IRFU issued a joint statement with Ulster Rugby on Saturday morning. The statement read:

"Following a review, conducted in the aftermath of recent court proceedings, the Irish Rugby Football Union and Ulster Rugby have revoked the contracts of Patrick Jackson and Stuart Olding with immediate effect. "In arriving at this decision, the Irish Rugby Football Union and Ulster Rugby acknowledge our responsibility and commitment to the core values of the game: Respect, Inclusivity and Integrity.

"It has been agreed, as part of this commitment, to conduct an in-depth review of existing structures and educational programmes, within the game in Ireland, to ensure the importance of these core values is clearly understood, supported and practised at every level of the game."

This comes after 250 people staged a protest outside the Ulster Rugby home stadium last night ahead of the team's first home game since Jackson and Olding were acquitted.