With Simon Zebo out the door and serious questions about some Munster players, there has finally been some good news on the contract front for Irish rugby today.
Tadhg Furlong has signed a three year IRFU contract to remain at Leinster up until the summer of 2021.
The tighthead prop made his Irish debut against Wales in the 2015 Guinness Summer Series before being named in the Irish squad for Rugby World Cup 2015.
3. It's The Magic Number for @tadhgfurlong as he signs a new three year IRFu deal to stay with @leinsterrugby #ShoulderToShoulder pic.twitter.com/2QX2WYlQfm
— Irish Rugby (@IrishRugby) December 15, 2017
The Wexford man has represented Ireland 19 times but has rapidly become one Joe Schmidt's key players. Starting every game of the 2017 RBS 6 Nations Championships. He capped off an incredible 2017 by starting all three tests against All Blacks last summer during the British & Irish Lions tour of New Zealand.
Reacting to the news, Tadhg Furlong said,
I am delighted to have signed a contract with the IRFU to continue to play with Leinster. I got a number of opportunities over the past few seasons that have helped me to develop as a player and I want to continue to develop and be successful with both Leinster and Ireland.
Leinster Rugby's CEO Mick Dawson commenting on retaining the Campile native said,
This is great news for Leinster and Ireland. Tadhg is a product of the Leinster Youths system and has come through New Ross, into our age grade system into our senior team and now to the highest honours with Ireland and the Lions.
His signature is a huge boost as we continue to build for the coming seasons. Securing home grown and young talent like Tadhg is a key part of the Leinster way.
The 25 year old has represented Leinster on 73 occasions, scoring four tries. Furlong made his debut for Leinster against Newport Gwent Dragons in November 2013 and has gone on from strength to strength.
