James Ryan signs contract extension with IRFU and Leinster

James Ryan has extended his central contract with the IRFU to remain at Leinster until the summer of 2025.

The second row is the third player to sign terms with the IRFU in recent months, after Peter O'Mahony agreed a one-year extension during the Six Nations, while Hugo Keenan signed a three-year deal.

Ryan reached his half century of Test caps for Ireland during the Six Nations this year, and filled in as captain in the Round 3 win against Italy when Johnny Sexton was sidelined with a groin injury.

The 26-year-old was one of Ireland's top performers during the Grand Slam campaign, scoring two tries and playing every minute of the championship success, his second Grand Slam after also starring in the 2018 title season.

Ryan, who has won a Heineken Champions Cup and four URC titles with Leinster, has scored four tries in his 71 appearances for the province.

"The ambition of Leinster and Ireland to improve each day and win trophies is one of the reasons why it is so enjoyable to be part of these squads," he said.

"There is also a great camaraderie and competitive edge in both squads. I have also been fortunate to captain my country over the past couple of seasons which has been an incredibly proud moment for me and my family."

IRFU Performance Director, David Nucifora commented, "James has established himself as a world class lock and is developing as a strong leader within the national squad and with his province.

"He has achieved a lot already in his career but at just 26 years of age he continues to develop his game and will be a force for Ireland and Leinster for years to come."

Watch Lions v Leinster (Saturday 3pm), Stormers v Munster (Saturday 5.15pm) and Connacht v Cardiff (Saturday 7.35pm) on RTÉ2 and the RTÉ Player or