Ireland boss Andy Farrell makes really interesting James Lowe admission
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Door’s open.
Ireland head coach Andy Farrell has refused to completely rule out the possibility of James Lowe returning for next year’s Rugby World Cup, despite the winger’s move to Japan.
Lowe brought the curtain down on a hugely successful nine-year spell with Leinster after helping the province secure back-to-back URC titles before completing a move to Japanese side Suntory Sungoliath.
Under the IRFU’s long-standing policy, players based overseas are generally unavailable for Ireland selection, with Johnny Sexton’s stint at Racing 92 remaining the only notable exception.
Speaking ahead of Ireland’s Nations Championship clash with Australia, Farrell admitted Lowe’s departure is a significant loss, but stopped short of saying the 33-year-old’s international career is definitely over.
“I’m disappointed because James has been a fantastic servant to Irish rugby,” Farrell said.
“We’ll see how that goes. He’s probably not going to be involved while he’s over there, but we’ll see what the future holds.”
Farrell acknowledged Ireland’s priority will be developing the next generation of wingers over the coming months, with the coaching staff eager to see who can cement a place before the World Cup.
“The challenge for us is to make sure someone puts their hand up and takes that opportunity,” he added.
While an imminent return for Lowe currently appears unlikely given Ireland’s overseas selection policy, Farrell’s comments leave the door ever so slightly ajar. Whether that changes before the World Cup may ultimately depend on how Ireland’s emerging back-three options develop over the next 12 months.
