Leinster and Irish Rugby have unveiled the re-signing of superstar duo James Ryan and Josh van der Flier. 

Both players have gone on to earn more than fifty caps for Ireland and have been instrumental in Ireland’s rise to the top of the World Rugby rankings in recent seasons. 

James Ryan

26-year-old secondrow Ryan burst onto the international scene in 2017 as a 20-year-old making his debut against the USA. 

He started his career on a remarkable note, winning his first 21 games for club and country. Since then, he has won two Guinness Six Nations Grand Slams, one Heineken Champions Cup and four Pro14 titles. 

Making his 50^th appearance against France in the most recent Six Nations, Ryan has also captained the side on seven occasions and has been tipped to take on the role full-time when Jonathan Sexton retires at the end of this year’s World Cup. 

Releasing a statement on Ryan’s signing, Irish Rugby Football Union CEO David Nucifora wrote: 

“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 already achieved a lot in his career, but at 26, he continues to improve his game, and he will be an asset to Ireland and Leinster in the years to come," 

Speaking on his delight at re-signing with both Leinster and Ireland, Ryan said: 

"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," 

"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." 

Ryan’s contract will see him remain in Irish Rugby until the end of the 2024/25 season. 

Josh van der Flier  

29-year-old van der Flier has had to navigate a slightly longer road to the top than his teammate, having battled to establish himself for both province and country. 

Making his Leinster debut in 2014 before making his international debut two years later in 2016 against England at Twickenham. 

Since then, the backrow has won two Six Nations Grand Slams, one Heineken Champions Cup and four Pro14 titles.  

On an individual level, van der Flier was crowned both the EPCR European Player of the Year and the World Rugby Men’s Player of the Year in 2022. Capping off an incredible season in which Ireland defeated the All Blacks in a three-test series 2 – 1.  

Speaking on the retention of the World’s best player, Nucifora said: “Josh’s journey to the top of the international game has not been straightforward, but his dedication, work ethic and professionalism have driven him to deliver a consistency of performance that has elevated him to World Player of the Year and a key contributor to the national team’s success in recent seasons.” 

Like Ryan, van der Flier was clearly happy with his decision to remain in Irish Rugby, having signed a deal that will take him through to the end of the 2025/26 season. 

“It is a privilege to be a part of two incredible rugby environments,” 

“I am very grateful to the coaches at both Leinster and Ireland who have helped me to develop my game over the years. I appreciate that I get to go to work each day with some of my best friends, doing something that I love, and I am thankful for the incredible support of my wife and family, who have been with me for every step of this journey so far.” He concluded.