A Belfast court has heard two Ireland rugby players accused of rape deny all allegations against them.
The case against Paddy Jackson and Stuart Olding has been brought before a Judge for the first time.
This case was called just before 11.00am this morning and lasted less than 10 minutes.
Neither Paddy Jackson nor Stuart Olding were present in Belfast Magistrates Court, and the Judge noted they weren’t legally required to attend.
Paddy Jackson who plays fly-half for Ulster and Ireland faces one charge of rape and one of sexual assault.
His team-mate Stuart Olding is charged with two counts of rape.
This composite image shows Paddy Jackson and Stuart Olding | Image: ©INPHO/Ryan Byrne/Billy Stickland
The charges are alleged to have been committed against the same woman at a house in Belfast on June 28th 2016.
Lawyers for the two men told the Judge they deny all the allegations against them.
Two other men face less serious charges arising out of the same case – which they also deny.
The IRFU and Ulster Rugby have said both Paddy Jackson and Stuart Olding will not play rugby again until the court process concludes.
The case was adjourned until next month.
