Simon Best is out of action at the moment because of injury

The new Magners League was officially launched on Tuesday in Kildare with Best saying that Ulster will "have a good shot at defending the title".

"All the players agree it can become one of the very best rugby competitions in the world," said Best.

Leinster captain Brian O'Driscoll also attended the launch at Carton House.

"I expect the competition to go from strength to strength and the profile will increase immensely with the attraction of a major title sponsor," said O'Driscoll.

Munster star Jerry Flannery denied suggestions that the competition is not a high priority for his team.

All the competing teams will be missing their international contingents for stages of the competition.

"You can't just hope to turn it on in the Heineken Cup if you are not performing in the Celtic League. It doesn't work like that," said Ireland hooker Flannery.

The Celtic League is now in its sixth season and organisers are confident getting a major sponsor on board will lift the profile of the competition.

John Hussey, Chairman of Celtic Rugby, said the quest for a title sponsor had been "a long search but well worth the wait".

"The League experienced a great season last year, and some of the best players in Europe are playing in our competition," added Mr Hussey.

"Next season the standard should be even higher, up with any league in Europe and perhaps the world."