Robbie Henshaw pens new deal to extend Leinster and Ireland stint

Robbie Henshaw has signed a new contract with the IRFU that keeps him with Leinster and Ireland until 2025. The former Connacht centre is the latest big name to sign on beyond the World Cup with his old deal expiring at the end of the current season.

The 28-year-old Athlone native debuted for Connacht in 2012 before moving to Leinster four years later after making 77 appearances for the western province. He made his bow in an Ireland shirt in 2013 and has gone on earn 57 caps, scoring eight tries in the process.

He has two Six Nations winner’s medal to go alongside 2018 Champions Cup crown as well as four Pro14 titles with Leinster. He was also a part of the Connacht squad that won the Pro12 in 2012.

Henshaw was named rugby writers men’s player of the year for 2021 after a campaign in which he started all three tests for the Lions on their tour of South Africa.

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Upon announcing the deal, Henshaw said: “I’m delighted to have signed a contract extension with Ireland and Leinster rugby. 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.”

David Nucifora, IRFU performance Director, commented: “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.”