Ian Whitten A product of the Ulster and Irish under age development pathways, whilst on an Ulster academy contract, Ian was invited to train with the senior team at the start of the 2008/09 season and his outstanding Ulster A performances ensured he remained part of the senior squad, making his senior Ulster debut against Portugal in the same season.

An imposing physical specimen, he combines his athletic ability with a refined handling and distribution game. His angles of running and confidence taking the ball into contact make him a devastating strike runner and his speed and bulk provide the necessary defensive ammunition.

Ian's incredible rise from academy player to senior international within the space of a year was completed with his first cap for Ireland against Canada on their North American summer tour