James Lowe has promised he will eventually return to Ireland with his family, as the Leinster star gets ready to move across the world.
The Ireland rugby star, who originally hails from New Zealand, admitted he was ‘sad’ to leave the country after almost a decade playing for Leinster.
James is set to move to Japan to play for Tokyo Suntory Sungoliath, making the journey alongside his wife, Arnica, and their two children, Nico and Renn. However, he vowed the family would return to Ireland at some point.
Leinster’s James Lowe celebrates with his son Nico after the game. Pic: INPHO/Dan Sheridan
‘I love this club. It’s always gonna have a special part in my heart,’ James told Premier Sports TV after his final game with Leinster in Croke Park on Friday.
‘Look, we’ll be back, we’ll be back in a couple of years,’ he promised as he held his eldest child, Nico, in his arms.
James admitted: ‘I’m not gonna lie, but this club and country… I wanted my fairytale to end here, but it doesn’t always happen, does it?’
Leinster’s James Lowe celebrates winning with his children Renn and Nico and wife Arnica. Pic: INPHO/Nick Elliott
Despite the star player confirming he was leaving after contract negotiations broke down, he was still quick to gush over Ireland.
‘It’s meant the world, and more. We’ve spent 10 years of my life here, growing a family, getting better as a rugby player, and winning a few trophies along the way,’ he recounted. ‘It’s been amazing.’
Leinster’s James Lowe celebrates with his son Nico alongside Jamison Gibson-Park and his son Jai on June 19. Pic: INPHO
‘It sucks that it ended the way it did, but sure, a cat always lands on its feet, and we’re off to Japan for a couple of years, so I’m really, really excited,’ he added.
Three-year-old Nico appeared excited for the move as he smiled at the camera whilst in his dad’s arms.
James Lowe of Leinster with his son Nico in Croke Park. Pic: David Fitzgerald/Sportsfile
The little man showed off his newly grown blonde mullet as his mum and baby sister watched on from the stands.
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