Irish international Iain Henderson has backed continued South African involvement in the United Rugby Championship.

The 2024-25 URC campaign, which begins on Friday night, will be the fourth for the Bulls, Stormers, Lions and Sharks in what was once a northern hemisphere competition.

Reports during the off season have suggested talks have been held over a British and Irish league, but the Ulster captain believes exposure to the South African sides has raised standards across the league.

“The South African teams have added a different element to the competition,” he told BBC Sport NI.

“The Stormers and Bulls have done incredibly well and got to most play-offs.

“I do feel that pushes other teams in our league to really up their game. The South African aspect has been really positive.”

Having played in various iterations of the domestic competition, Henderson takes talk of impending change with a pinch of salt.

“It’s been talked about for years and years and years,” said the 32-year-old.

“Whenever you hear new news about a brand new tournament, the clickbait that it is can seem exciting.

“But the guys involved in making those decisions will do it with the best intentions.”