Sheehan signs central contract in two-year deal with Leinster

Leinster hooker Dan Sheehan has penned his first central contract with the IRFU.

“I am delighted to commit my future to Leinster and continue my playing career in Ireland,” said the 25-year-old front-row forward (above) after confirming the two-year deal.

“It means an enormous amount to wear the green of Ireland and blue of Leinster and I would like to thank all of my coaches, team-mates and support staff who help foster such positive environments.

“It is a hugely exciting time to be playing rugby in Ireland and I believe the best is yet to come at club and international levels in the months and years to come.”

Sheehan has established himself as one of the game’s leading players since breaking on to the international scene against Japan in 2021 and has 26 caps for Ireland so far, scoring ten tries.

He was a linchpin of Ireland’s successive Six Nations title campaigns and was the outstanding hooker in this year’s edition, while last year he was selected on World Rugby’s Dream Team.

He has 58 caps for Leinster, scoring 35 tries, and was named the URC Players’ Player of the Season in 2022/’23.

“Dan is a world-class talent who continues to set the bar high in world rugby,” said outgoing IRFU performance director David Nucifora.

“His try-scoring stats are eye-catching but tell only part of the story of his value to the Ireland and Leinster dressing-rooms.

“It is a great boost for all supporters of Irish rugby that he has decided to remain in Ireland over the coming seasons and I look forward to watching his development as he approaches the prime stages of his career.”