Long and Cunningham have been key to St Helens' recent success

Scrum-half Long, 30, has agreed a new two-year deal to keep him at the club until the end of the 2009 season.

The 30-year-old Cunningham has committed himself until 2008 after putting pen to paper on a one-year contract extension.

St Helens also agreed new deals with forward Maurie Fa'asavalu and 18-year-old half-back Scott Moore.

606: DEBATE Cunningham is a class player, a one year contract does not seem enough JJ

Fa'asavalu, who has been used to great effect by St Helens from the bench over the last two seasons, and Moore are both contracted until 2010.

"Sean and Keiron have been pivotal to Saints' success over the last decade," said Saints chairman Eamonn McManus.

"I'm sure the same formula will work in the future as we also bring through the great young talent that we are developing at the club.

"The fans will be equally pleased that Maurie is committing long term to the club has he's proving to be one of the best impact props in the game and will improve further.

"Scott Moore is one of the best teenage talents around and we again will look to develop his potential to became a regular first team player down the line."

Long and Cunningham both made the decision to stand down from international rugby in order to prolong their club careers and spend more time with their families.

By signing a new contract, Long appears to have effectively closed the door on any hopes of playing in Australia's National Rugby League.