James Lowe’s emotional first words as Leinster exit confirmed: ‘Man, where do I begin?’
James Lowe's emotional first words as Leinster exit confirmed: 'Man, where do I begin?'
Ireland legend James Lowe has released an emotional statement on social media after it was confirmed that he will be exiting Leinster Rugby after nine years at the province.
The New Zealand-born winger won five United Rugby Championships (four in the PRO14 era) during his time in Ireland, and picked up a Champions Cup in 2018, before becoming the Dublin-based side’s all-time leading try scorer with 71 tries in just 101 appearances.
His performances in the famous blue jersey earned him a call-up to the Ireland Test side, and since making his debut in 2020, he has gone on to win 45 caps and represented the Emerald Isle at the 2023 Rugby World Cup. Lowe was also selected for last year’s British and Irish Lions tour, starting two Tests against the Wallabies as the tourists secured a series victory.
The 33-year-old’s final appearance for Leinster will come in next Friday’s United Rugby Championship (URC) final at Croke Park, where they face the Bulls in a repeat of last season’s showpiece decider.
James Lowe’s emotional statement
His statement on Instagram reads: “Man, where do I begin?
“Nine years. Nine unforgettable seasons.
“I find it difficult to put into words what Ireland means to me. It’s become so much more than a place of work. It’s become our home.
“This country has not only shaped me, it has shaped my career, our family, and given us friendships that we will have for the rest of our lives.
“When I first arrived in Ireland, I had no idea what I was getting into. I was extremely naïve and full of excitement, not knowing where this journey would take me.
“I just had a point to prove.
“You welcomed me, you accepted me, and this journey has been nothing short of amazing.
“Ireland, you’ve given us so much more than just rugby.
“You gave us lifelong friendships, memories we will cherish forever, a place where our family grew, where our children were raised and where we have always felt supported and loved.
“Ireland, thank you.”
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“Thanks a million for embracing a kid from a small town in New Zealand and making me feel at home,” he continued.
“Thank you for the conversations, kind words, shows of support and every moment of encouragement.
“The warmth, generosity and spirit of the people here is something else.
“My family and I will forever be grateful.
“Leinster Rugby, you took a punt on me many moons ago and I think we both got more than we bargained for.
“I didn’t understand what representing this club meant, but now I get it.
“It’s been some craic. The highest of highs and the lowest of lows.
“It has been an honour to represent this club.
“To my teammates, past and present, thank you for the friendships, the laughs, the beers and for laughing at my shite gags.
“Last but definitely not least, to Irish Rugby. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to represent you. I can’t put into words what this means.
“All I ever wanted to do when I was a kid was play international rugby.
“You trusted me, and to represent you 45 times is the greatest rugby honour of my life.
“I never took it for granted.
“I understood the criticism that would follow, but I want you to know that every time I pulled on that jersey it filled me with an immense amount of pride.
“Thank you.
“Unfortunately, not everyone gets their fairytale ending.
“This decision comes with a heavy heart.
“I love Ireland.
“I call it home.
“But sometimes rugby takes you on journeys you don’t expect.
“A new chapter awaits us, and that doesn’t make saying goodbye any easier.
“Ireland, you’ve given us more than we could ever repay.
“Thank you for the memories.
“Thank you for the friendships.
“Thank you for accepting me.
“Thank you for making our family feel at home.
“I’ll see you again.
“With love, James Lowe.”
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“It’s terrible the way the IRFU treated you”
The 33-year-old has amassed plenty of support over the years, and former Leinster hooker Bernard Jackman is one of his biggest supporters, commenting: “Amazing impact on and off the field. Best of luck with your next club”.
Teammate Ciaran Frawley added: “One of the best to do it! You’ll be missed Jimmy.”
However, not everyone is happy with the situation after the Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU) failed to include Lowe on a central contract.
One fan expressed his frustration, saying: “It’s terrible the way the IRFU treated you. We don’t blame you for your decision. You’re the victim of a very mismanaged situation by Leinster and the IRFU. Fans are angry, but it’s not you they’re angry at. We’re really going to miss you and hope you come back to retire in Ireland.”
There has been no confirmation surrounding his next move, but Irish publication The 42 has recently suggested that Lowe will join Japan Rugby League One’s Tokyo Suntory Sungoliath.
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