Ulster skipper and Ireland hooker Rory Best has been ruled out for the entire 2009/10 season due to a chronic neck injury.

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Best (pictured), 26, is suffering from a disc injury in his neck which requires surgery followed by a lengthy period of rehabilitation lasting between nine and 12 months.

"Losing Rory at the start of the season is a huge blow for us, not only is he our number one hooker but also our captain and one of the most experienced players in the squad," said Ulster's operations director David Humphreys.

"However, what is most important is Rory's long-term health and welfare and there's no reason not to expect him to return fully to rugby, post surgery and rehabilitation, next season.

"The timing of this injury presents difficulties as most players are contracted for the 09/10 season. While we strengthened our hooking options this summer with the signing of Andy Kyriacou, we are working at present to find a replacement for Rory within world rugby."

The injury will also come as a blow to Ireland ahead of their autumn series against Australia, Fiji and South Africa, as well as for the 2010 Six Nations, in which they will be defending their Grand Slam crown.

Munster's Jerry Flannery is currently Ireland's first choice hooker but the 34-times capped Best is still a key member of Declan Kidney's squad.