Cian Healy pledges immediate future with Ireland and Leinster

Ireland international has committed his immediate future with the Irish Rugby Football Union and Leinster after signing a two-year deal.

Healy made his debut for Ireland in 2009 and has gone on to play for his country 88 times including the Six Nations tournament earlier this year. The 31-year-old also started in four of the five Tests in Ireland's Grand Slam win last year and will be a vital cog in Joe Schmidt's plans in the World Cup later this year after previously representing them in the 2011 and 2015 editions.

“Pulling on a Leinster or an Ireland jersey is something that I have always taken a huge amount of pride in and I am thankful for every opportunity I get. I am delighted therefore to have extended my IRFU contract and to continue to line out for Leinster," said Healy.

“I believe that we have built something special at Leinster and with the national team and I want to contribute as best I can to both teams in what will be a hugely exciting few months and years ahead.

“There has been some difficult times over the last few years for me personally with injury but the support within the Leinster and the Irish rugby family was very humbling from fellow players, coaches and supporters and it’s something that I won’t forget.

"It made this decision all the easier knowing that I was part of something bigger than just a rugby team.

“I hope to play my part in helping Leinster and Ireland achieve further success over the next few years and I’m looking forward to the next chapter in that journey.”

His association with Leinster started in 2007 and has made over 200 appearances for the Dublin outfit since then and was part of the squad that went on to clinch four Heineken Cups, a Challenge Cup and three PRO14 rugby titles.