Heaslip signs long-term IRFU contract

Jamie Heaslip is set to end his career with Leinster after signing a new long-term contract with the Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU).

The in-demand Ireland number eight stated late last year that he is weighing up options at home and abroad.

Heaslip snubbed interest from overseas to put pen to paper on a new deal in 2014 and the 33-year-old British and Irish Lion has again opted to stay put by agreeing a deal which will run until after the 2019 World Cup in Japan.

“I’m delighted to be given the opportunity to continue to represent Leinster and Ireland,” said Heaslip, who has 93 Ireland caps to his name.

“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.”

229 appearances.

17,107 minutes.

38 tries.

And he’s not done yet…#JamieSigns #FromTheGroundUp pic.twitter.com/uS39kvn0ll

— Leinster Rugby (@leinsterrugby) February 14, 2017

Heaslip made his debut for Leinster almost 12 years ago and has gone on to make 227 appearances for the Pro12 club.