James Ryan to stay in Ireland beyond World Cup after signing new deal

Ireland and Leinster lock James Ryan has signed a new deal with the Irish Rugby Football Union until the end of the 2027/28 season.

The deal will see the 28-year-old remain in Ireland beyond the 2027 World Cup, where he will be hoping to erase the heartbreak of the 2019 and 2023 campaigns.

Ryan now has 67 caps to his name after making his Test debut in 2017 as a 20-year-old against the United States. The lock’s Test debut curiously came before he had made an appearance for Leinster, the province he has gone on to make 89 appearances for.

Ryan co-captained Leinster last season alongside Garry Ringrose as they were runners-up in the Investec Champions Cup for the third straight year, and lost in the semi-finals of the United Rugby Championship. With Leinster unbeaten so far this year, they will be looking to end their mini trophy drought.

The lock has also captained his country and remains a mainstay in Andy Farrell’s squads.

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“I am delighted to sign a new contract with Leinster and commit my long-term future to the IRFU,” Ryan said.

“Playing in ambitious set-ups is a big driver for me personally and I know how committed everyone in Irish Rugby is to work hard and achieve success. It is a privilege to play for my home province and my country and, with the talent coming through the Academy systems, I am excited about what the future holds in blue and green.”

IRFU performance director David Humphreys added: “James has been a mainstay of the Leinster and Ireland engine rooms over the last number of seasons, and it is a huge boost for both teams that he will continue his rugby career in Ireland.

“James has displayed consistency and talent for many years which, allied to his leadership skills, means that Ireland has successfully retained another important player within our system. We believe that James’ best years are ahead of him and look forward to watching him progress in the seasons to come.”