Stephen Kirkpatrick chief executive of Bank of Ireland Northern Ireland introduced the new players joining the Ulster squad, scrum-Half Cillian Willis, No 8 Robbie Diack, full back or wing Clinton Schifcofske, lock Ed Donoghue and outhalf Ian Humphreys to the local media

Bank of Ireland has been the proud sponsor of Ulster Rugby for no less than a decade and in 2006 reaffirmed its commitment by signing the first ever seven-figure sponsorship deal for a sporting team in Northern Ireland.

Kirkpatrick welcomed the new players to the squad, saying: "Bank of Ireland have built a strong relationship with the Ulster rugby management and the team themselves. We are delighted to introduce these talented players at the start of a new chapter for Ulster Rugby.

"It is an exciting time for the province. This will be Matt Williams first full-season at the helm as head coach. The outlook is optimistic and spirits are high.

"We look forward to continuing our partnership together with Ulster Rugby in the seasons ahead and wish the team every success with their upcoming matches."