'One of the best players in world rugby': Henshaw signs IRFU deal

Ireland and Lions midfielder Robbie Henshaw has signed a new IRFU central contract that will keep him playing in his home country with Leinster until July 2025. An IRFU statement on their latest deal with the 28-year-old read: “The IRFU and Leinster are delighted to confirm that Robbie Henshaw has extended his contract to July 2025.

“Robbie won multiple player of the year awards in 2021 for his stellar performances for Leinster, Ireland and the British and Irish Lions. Henshaw started every game of Ireland’s 2021 Guinness Six Nations campaign and his form earned him a place in the Lions squad where he started all three Tests against the Springboks.

“The Athlone native made his international debut against the USA in 2013 and has represented his country on 57 occasions to date. Robbie has won two Six Nations titles with Ireland and has played at two Rugby World Cups (2015, 2019).

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“At provincial level, Robbie has won a European Champions Cup and four PRO14 titles with Leinster and he won a PRO12 title with Connacht in 2016. He has made 63 appearances for Leinster, scoring 14 tries.”

IRFU performance director David Nucifora added: “In 2021 Robbie showed that he was one of the best players in world rugby with dominant performances for both Ireland and the British and Irish Lions. 

“The early part of this season was disrupted with a couple of injuries but he is a player who contributes massively to both Leinster and Ireland and he will play a big role in delivering the ambitions of both squads this season and in the years to come.”

Henshaw said: “I’m delighted to have signed a contract extension with Ireland and Leinster. We are lucky to have such high quality centres in Ireland and it is a really competitive position which makes it very exciting. There is so much to look forward to over the coming months and I want to play a role in achieving success for both teams.”