Jack McGrath and Sean Reidy among five departures from Ulster

Ireland prop Jack McGrath is one of five senior players who will leave Ulster at the end of the season. New-Zealand born Ireland international flanker Sean Reidy, secondrows Mick Kearney and David O’Connor and prop Ross Kane will also depart the province.

Since joining Ulster in the summer of 2019 from Leinster, McGrath has made 24 appearances, with injury curtailing his caps for the province.

The 32-year-old is to undergo further medical treatment and will continue his rehab to full fitness in the months ahead.

Of his time with Ulster, he said: “A big thanks goes to Ulster Rugby and the coaches during my time in Belfast. My team-mates became close friends and I will always value those friendships.

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“I will miss the incredible support of the Ulster fans, it’s a great feeling running out at Kingspan Stadium as a home player, and it’s a shame I can’t get the opportunity to say farewell.

“As for the future, I’m now a free agent and I have no intention of retiring. I face months of rehabbing in my battle for full fitness, but I am surrounded by a top-class team who will ensure I am in great shape to return to play. I am fully committed to becoming the first player in any sport to play at an elite level with two hip resurfacing operations.”

Reidy will return to his home country at the end of the season. A stalwart of the province for the last eight years, the Ireland-capped flanker recently made his 150th appearance when Ulster claimed a historic away win over Clermont Auvergne.