Iain Henderson has expressed his delight at receiving his maiden call for the British and Irish Lions.
The versatile 25 year old is one of three Ulster players selected by Lions head coach Warren Gatland for the 2017 tour of New Zealand alongside Ireland captain Rory Best and fellow international Jared Payne.
Speaking to the Ulster Rugby official website, Henderson spoke of the moment that he discovered that he will be on the plane to New Zealand.
"I'm delighted. Probably a bit shaken at the time but I'm immensely proud now," said Henderson, who was a member of Ireland's 2015 Rugby World Cup squad.
"I'm looking forward to finishing a good season for Ulster and really looking forward to the summer tour now.
As for where he was watching as the squad announcement was made, he said, "On Sky Sports like everyone else, believe it or not. Quite shocking. I wasn't sure whether to be checking my phone or checking my TV or looking at my emails or what to be doing. But it was Sky Sports watching the manager reading it out. Definitely an experience."
Henderson has won 32 Ireland caps since making his international debut against South Africa in November 2012, scoring five tries.
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