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Lowe will leave Dublin at the end of the 2025/26 United Rugby Championship season, with his final match for the province set to be the incoming URC Grand Final against the Bulls at Croke Park. Lowe is set for a move to the Japan Rugby League One with a deal on the table from Tokyo Sungoliath.
This means that Lowe has played his final match for Ireland and at the Aviva Stadium, with the New Zealander set to replace Springboks wing Cheslin Kolbe in Japan. The South African wing moves back to his homeland this Summer, with a transfer confirmed with the Stormers.
View this post on Instagram
“Man, where do I begin?” Lowe began his statement on Instagram.
“Nine years. Nine unforgettable seasons. I find it difficult to put into words what Ireland means to me. It’s become so much more than a place of work. It’s become our home.
“This country has not only shaped me, it has shaped my career, our family, and given us friendships that we will have for the rest of our lives.
“When I first arrived in Ireland, I had no idea what I was getting into. I was extremely naive and full of excitement, not knowing where this journey would take me.
“I just had a point to prove. You welcomed me, you accepted me, and this journey has been nothing short of amazing.
“Ireland, you’ve given us so much more than just rugby. You gave us lifelong friendships, memories we will cherish forever, a place where our family grew, where our children were raised and where we have always felt supported and loved.
“Ireland, thank you. Thanks a million for embracing a kid from a small town in New Zealand and making me feel at home.
“Thank you for the conversations, kind words, shows of support and every moment of encouragement. The warmth, generosity and spirit of the people here is something else. My family and I will forever be grateful.
“Leinster Rugby, you took a punt on me many moons ago and I think we both got more than we bargained for. I didn’t understand what representing this club meant, but now I get it.
“It’s been some craic. The highest of highs and the lowest of lows. It has been an honour to represent this club. To my teammates, past and present, thank you for the friendships, the laughs, the beers and for laughing at my shite gags.
“Last but definitely not least, to Irish Rugby. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to represent you. I can’t put into words what this means. All I ever wanted to do when I was a kid was play international rugby.
“You trusted me, and to represent you 45 times is the greatest rugby honour of my life. I never took it for granted. I understood the criticism that would follow, but I want you to know that every time I pulled on that jersey it filled me with an immense amount of pride. Thank you.
“Unfortunately, not everyone gets their fairytale ending. 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.
“Ireland, you’ve given us more than we could ever repay. Thank you for the memories. Thank you for the friendships. Thank you for accepting me. Thank you for making our family feel at home. I’ll see you again.
“With love, James Lowe, Lowey, a kid from the 03.”
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