World Rugby

Irish Rugby Secures Star Players, New Deals Continuing Exciting 2027 Cycle

Irish Rugby Secures Star Players, New Deals Continuing Exciting 2027 Cycle

Irish Rugby secures stars Henshaw, Furlong, Porter, Ryan and Aki with new deals through 2027, as Stockdale signs with Ulster. Rising talents could be next.

Dec 26, 2024 by Philip Bendon
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Irish Rugby continues to lock in its top talent, as several key players have committed their futures to the Irish Rugby Football Union and their provinces. 

Robbie Henshaw, Tadhg Furlong, Andrew Porter, James Ryan and Bundee Aki are the latest high-profile names to extend their contracts, ensuring a strong core of experienced players through the 2027 Rugby World Cup cycle.

Henshaw, who had attracted interest from French clubs, signed a two-year extension, declaring his excitement to remain in Ireland. 

“It’s a huge privilege to play rugby here, and I believe my best days are ahead,” said the Athlone native.

Leinster teammates Furlong, Porter and Ryan also inked deals to stay through 2027, reinforcing Ireland’s world-class forward pack. 

Furlong, a veteran of two British & Irish Lions tours, emphasized his commitment to both club and country. 

“To continue my career with Leinster and Ireland is a dream come true,” he said. 

Porter, meanwhile, highlighted the pride he feels in representing Ireland and his home province.

Connacht center Aki joins the list, bolstering Andy Farrell’s options as Ireland prepares for the next World Cup cycle.

Ulster’s Jacob Stockdale also renewed his contract, signing a two-year deal to remain at Ravenhill. 

While not a centrally contracted player, Stockdale’s form has been resurgent, with three tries in his last five URC matches. 

Ulster General Manager Bryn Cunningham praised Stockdale’s resilience, saying, “A fit and confident Jacob is one of the deadliest wingers in rugby.”

As the IRFU finalizes these crucial deals, attention turns to rising stars, such as Munster’s Craig Casey and Jack Crowley and Connacht’s Mack Hansen, who may be next to sign. 

With a mix of seasoned leaders and emerging talents, Ireland’s rugby future looks bright heading into the next cycle.

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