Winger James Lowe will leave Leinster at the end of the season, amid reports that he could join Cheslin Kolbe’s former Japanese club.
Leinster on Tuesday confirmed his departure, ending weeks of speculation surrounding the future of one of the province’s most influential players.
The 33-year-old will reportedly join the Tokyo Suntory Sungoliath, filling the void left by Kolbe, who has returned to the Stormers after three seasons in Japan.
Next Friday night’s Vodacom URC final against the Bulls at Croke Park will be Lowe’s last outing in a Leinster jersey, bringing the curtain down on a nine-year spell that has yielded 101 appearances and 71 tries.
Lowe’s move to Japan will also bring his Ireland career to an end.
The former New Zealand Maori international arrived in Dublin in 2017 and went on to become a key figure for both Leinster and Ireland.
After qualifying through residency, he earned 45 Test caps and established himself as one of the world’s premier wings under Ireland coach Andy Farrell.
Lowe, who was also selected for the 2025 British & Irish Lions tour to Australia, earned his final Test cap in the 42-21 Six Nations victory over England at Twickenham in February.
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In an emotional farewell message, Lowe thanked Ireland for embracing him and his family, describing the country as “home”.
“Unfortunately, not everyone gets their fairytale ending,” Lowe wrote.
“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.”
“Thanks a million for embracing a kid from a small town in New Zealand and making me feel at home.”
Photo: Charles McQuillan/Getty Images
The post Lowe set to replace Kolbe at Japanese club appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.
Leinster have confirmed that one of their stars is set to leave at the end of the season, with reports that he will join up Tokyo Sungoliath who have lost the services of Springbok star Cheslin Kolbe.
The post Lowe set to replace Kolbe at Japanese club appeared first on SA Rugby magazine. Read More
