Two of Irish rugby’s most crucial players sign new contracts

"Today’s announcement underpins the IRFU’s commitment to ensuring the best Irish players play at home."

Under the IRFU's new rules brought in by Director of Rugby David Humphreys, Leinster must fork out 30% of these central contracts, which will cost them a pretty penny.

But the decision is a no-brainer, with both players continuing to be two of Ireland's most important pieces.

Porter started all 11 of Ireland's tests this year, with a massive gap between him and the next best loosehead prop.

Two-time Lions test player Furlong missed Ireland's recent Autumn Nations Series, but his importance was only amplified as the team struggled for go-forward ball and all-round consistency up front.

Furlong said: "To get the chance to continue my playing career in Ireland with my home province is a dream come true.

"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."

Porter said: "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.

"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."

IRFU Performance Director, David 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.

"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."