James Lowe’s Wonderfully Honest Reason For Joining Leinster
Jason Hennessy
Latest posts by Jason Hennessy (see all)
- Here’s The British & Irish Lions Team We’d Like To See Take On The Springboks In The Second Test - July 26, 2021
- “He Seemed To Be Alright?” – Vunipola Responds To Erasmus Calling Him Out Over Kolbe Incident - July 26, 2021
- Warren Gatland’s Comments About Jack Conan Might Make Some People See Sense - July 26, 2021
No messing about.
James Lowe has become an instant hit at Leinster since linking up with the eastern province back in November. The former Chiefs star was one of the star men in Super Rugby last year and his style of play always going to suit the Irish province.
When the announcement of Lowe’s impending arrival was initially made public, a lot of people were shocked at first. Lowe has impressed at international level for the Maori All Blacks, and for many in New Zealand, was on the cusp of All Blacks selection.
A very special British & Irish Lions House of Rugby show – fronted by Sean O'Brien and Alex Goode – is available now and will run for the duration of the tour. Follow and subscribe to it HERE
But it appears Lowe didn’t want to wait around for what might have been, and admits his move to Leinster was financially motivated. Players like Bundee Aki, Francis Saili and Charles Piutau have all made similar moves in recent years.
Lowe will also be available for Ireland selection in less than three years time. But the New Zealander’s move wasn’t motivated by international selection. If it happens, it happens.
“I got here at the end of last year and if you got here last year you come under the three-year instead of the five-year rule.” Lowe said.
“If Leinster want to hold on to me, in three years’ time, then I guess it’s a possibility.
“That would be cool but back home I guess once you get past that stage, when playing for the All Blacks isn’t the ultimate goal, you’ve got to think down the line.
“Financially, it’s a lot nicer, especially with the exchange rate, to come here. Instead of doing it for three or four years at the end of my career, if I can do it for ten and set myself up, why wouldn’t you do it?”
Lowe, Luke McGrath and Ross Byrne were speaking at an event where they tried their hand in flight simulators in association with Leinster Rugby official airline CityJet.com at Simtech Aviation facilities in Dublin.
