Golden handshake.

Paddy Jackson and Stuart Olding were reportedly given hefty pay-offs from the IRFU as part of the decision to revoke their contracts.

The IRFU and Ulster Rugby reached a “compromise agreement” that will see the pair walk away from the club with a payment “close to contract value”, according to the Sunday Independent.

It is also reported that the pair wanted to avoid a “drawn-out disciplinary process” and instead decided on a mutual termination of their contracts.

The amounts are set to remain confidential, but it is believed both players were on contracts of between €100,000 and €300,000 a year.

Meanwhile, both players look set for a swift return to rugby. Stuart Olding is said to be close to agreeing a deal with the Exeter Chiefs, while Jackson’s representatives are believed to be in talks with Clermont Auvergne.