Ireland captain Johnny Sexton signs contract extension until 2023 World Cup

Fly-half Johnny Sexton has committed his immediate future with Ireland and Leinster after signing a contract extension until the end of 2023 World Cup.

Sexton made his international debut with Ireland in 2009 and has gone on to represent them in 103 Tests including 12 World Cup games that came in the 2011, 2015 and 2019 editions. He also had won three Six Nations titles with Ireland.

He was appointed the captain of Ireland in January 2020 when Andy Farrell took in charge and since then has led them to 10 wins from 13 games.

The 36-year-old also had represented the British and Irish Lions in six games that came during the 2013 and 2017 tours of Australia and New Zealand respectively.

“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," he told in a statement released by IRFU.

"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's professional rugby debut came with Leinster in 2006 and had represented his provinces on 178 occasions spread across two stints, scoring 1549 points in the process winning five European Cups. He also has the experience of playing for Racing 92 between 2013 and 2015.

“Johnny’s performances continue to be of the highest standard and he remains an integral member of the Ireland and Leinster squads," IRFU Performance Director David Nucifora.

"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.”