Heaslip signs new IRFU contract

Editor

The IRFU and Leinster have announced that Jamie Heaslip has signed a new IRFU contract which will see him play his rugby in Ireland until the end of the Rugby World Cup in Japan.

Heaslip made his Ireland debut in the 61-17 win over the Pacific Islands in November 2006. The 33-year-old has won 93 caps for Ireland scoring 13 tries and has started 36 of Ireland’s last 41 Test matches.

His most recent appearance for Ireland was in Saturday’s 63-10 victory over Italy in the 2017 Six Nations Championship. Heaslip’s new contract has been wholly funded by the IRFU.

A two time tourist with the British and Irish Lions (2009 and 2013 – five Test appearances), he has won a Grand Slam (2009) and two Six Nations Championship titles (2014, 2015) with Ireland and three European Cups, a Challenge Cup and two PRO12 league titles with Leinster.

He was also shortlisted for the World Rugby Player of the Year Award in 2009 and 2016 and collected the World Rugby Try of the Year award last year.

IRFU Performance Director, David Nucifora, said: “Jamie continues to illustrate why he is one of the top performers in international rugby.  He is a leader for both his country and province and delivers a high level of performance every time he pulls on the green or blue jersey.”

Commenting on the new contract Jamie Heaslip said: “I’m delighted to be given the opportunity to continue to represent Leinster and Ireland.

“My aim when I started my professional rugby career was to leave the jersey – either the blue of Leinster or the green of Ireland in a better place than when I first put  it on and this new contract gives me the chance to continue to chase this dream.

“As with each and every professional rugby player we don’t do this alone and so I would like to thank my wife Sheena for supporting me always and all the coaches, fellow rugby players and supporters who have helped me live my boyhood dream – of going to work daily with a rugby ball in my hand”.