Ireland stars to be prosecuted for alleged rape

The duo was arrested over the alleged incident at a Belfast property in June last year. They were released pending a police report being sent to prosecutors for assessment.

The Irish Rugby Football Union and Ulster Rugby relieved the duo of their duties on Tuesday.

"The IRFU and Ulster Rugby are aware that Paddy Jackson and Stuart Olding have been charged by the PSNI [Police Service of Northern Ireland] in relation to serious allegations made against them," the IRFU said in a statement.

"The players have cooperated fully and strenuously deny the charges.

"The IRFU and Ulster Rugby take these allegations extremely seriously.

"To allow the players time to address this matter fully Ulster Rugby and the IRFU have agreed that they be relieved of their duties and obligations until the conclusion of this process. Appropriate support structures will be put in place with them during this time.

"As this is a matter for the Public Prosecution Service it would be inappropriate to comment further."