Farrell does not rule out Lowe for World Cup return

Ireland head coach Andy Farrell has admitted that former Leinster wing James Lowe is unlikely to play for Ireland while based in Japan, but he did not definitively rule out the possibility of Lowe being selected for the 2027 World Cup.

Lowe, 34, left Leinster at the end of the season after failing to agree a new deal with the Irish province and United Rugby Championship winners. The New Zealand-born winger has been a key player for Farrell, who has won two Six Nations titles and a Grand Slam in 2023 during his tenure. Farrell said he is "disappointed" that Lowe is moving away from the setup.

The Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU) policy is to select only players who play for one of the four provinces, aside from Johnny Sexton during his two-year stint with Racing 92. When asked about the policy, Farrell said: "You know that we've held the line with that for many, many years, but we'll see how that plays out in the next 12 months." He added that if they fail to develop and bring through new players, they could potentially bring Lowe back, but currently it is right to give others a chance.

Ireland are currently without injured wings Tommy O'Brien, Shayne Bolton, and Mack Hansen. Jacob Stockdale is an option on the left wing. In Lowe's absence, versatile Jamie Osborne has been handed the 11 jersey for Saturday's opening Nations Championship game against Australia in Sydney. Ireland will also face Japan and New Zealand in July as they prepare for the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia.

Farrell described Lowe as a "larger-than-life character" and said it is "not my role" to get involved in contract negotiations. "He's a brilliant player, but we all know sport and the ins and outs. Sometimes it works out, but this time it didn't. I know James is delighted with the contract he got in the end and he's on to a new venture."

Farrell said Lowe will be "thoroughly missed" but "we have to move on". "Somebody has to step up and take that mantle that James has done over the last number of years superbly for Ireland. But at the same time, it's the same every campaign. Something happens that takes you by surprise. I certainly wish him all the best."