Sexton signs on for the next World Cup

Ireland captain Johnny Sexton has signed a new contract extension with the IRFU up until the end of the 2023 World Cup, despite being 38 by the time of next year’s tournament.

The Leinster fly-half has won 103 international caps after making his international debut against Fiji in November 2009, and has represented Ireland at the 2011, 2015 and 2019 World Cups.

Sexton said in a statement on the IRFU website: “I always said that if I am enjoying my rugby – and the Ireland and Leinster set-ups believe I can add value to the environment – then it would be an easy decision to sign another contract.”

The 2018 World Player of the Year has also toured twice with the British and Irish Lions, in 2013 and 2017 and has won three Six Nations titles and four Champions Cups with Leinster.

He said: “There is some great talent coming through at Leinster at present and I am excited about the prospect of competing at a fourth World Cup with Ireland and the potential for growth in this group between now and then.”

Sexton has recently overcame a hamstring injury that ruled him out of Ireland’s defeat to France in round two but came off the bench in the win over Italy last time out.

IRFU performance director David Nucifora said: “Johnny’s performances continue to be of the highest standard and he remains an integral member of the Ireland and Leinster squads.

“He has always been a leader on the field and in the past two years, since taking on the Ireland captaincy, his leadership off it has been top class.

“Johnny is a generational player, and we are delighted that he has extended to 2023.”

Written by Ben Jaycock