THE RAPE TRIAL of two Ulster and Ireland rugby players begins today at Belfast Crown Court.
Paddy Jackson, 26, and Stuart Olding, 24, will both appear in court today accused of raping the same woman at a property in south Belfast in June 2016.
Jackson also faces a further charge of indecent assault.
They have both strenuously denied the charges.
Two separate men have also been returned for trial on charges connected with the incident.
Both Blane McIlroy, 26, is charged with perverting the course of justice and withholding information.
Rory Harrison, 25, is charged with perverting the course of justice and withholding information.
All four have pleaded not guilty and are on bail.
The case, which could last up to five weeks is being heard by Judge Patricia Smyth.
Jackson plays as a fly-half for Ulster and has been capped 25 times for Ireland.
Olding plays centre and has played for Ireland four times.
The Irish Rugby Football Union and Ulster Rugby have said they will not play again until court proceedings conclude.
