THE IRFU have made a Prop bet that Andrew Porter and Tadhg Furlong can lead Ireland to the World Cup by awarding both new two-year contracts.
Loosehead prop Porter and tighthead prop Furlong have both agreed new deals to take them up to the end of the 2026-27 season with Leinster just ahead of the next World Cup in Australia.
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Tadhg Furlong has been given a new contract with the IRFUCredit: Seb Daly/Sportsfile
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Andrew Porter penned a new deal shortly thereafterCredit: Seb Daly/Sportsfile
Furlong’s new deal is an extension and the 32-year-old, who was reportedly wanted by Bayonne in France, was glad to secure his future.
He said: “To get the chance to continue my playing career in Ireland with my home province is a dream come true.
“I am delighted to extend my long association with both Leinster Rugby and the IRFU for the seasons to come.
“Since the beginning of my career I have aimed to contribute positively in a winning environment and I believe that there are bright times to come for club and country.”
Porter, 28, was also glad to do a deal to remain in the Irish system.
He continued: “Playing in Ireland is something that I never take for granted and I am delighted to commit my future to my home province Leinster and Ireland.
“There is a huge amount of talent coming through the system at provincial and international levels and it is a privilege to work with such a talented group of coaches and players.
“I believe that the level of competition will drive us all on as we bid for success in the months and years to come and I am proud that I will have the chance to be a play in the Irish system for the next number of seasons.”
New IRFU Performance Director David Humphreys insisted that keeping the front row pair is evidence of the unions determination to keep the best Irish players available to Ireland.
He said: “This announcement underpins the IRFU’s commitment to retaining top talent and in ensuring that the best Irish players will continue to play at home.
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“Tadhg is a world-class tighthead whose influence transcends his abilities on the field.
“Andrew is an outstanding world-class talent and it is a huge statement of intent that he has committed his future to both Leinster and the IRFU.”
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