International star set to miss out on World Cup after breakdown in contract talks

Andy Farrell will be getting everything in place with Ireland to set them up for success in the World Cup next year, but he may need to do it without one of his international stalwarts.

The Ireland head coach almost guided the nation to the Six Nations title this year but missed out by the finest of margins as France scored with the last kick of the game to beat England to secure the title.

Throughout the tournament Farrell was bringing in fresh talent to add to the stars that he had used to bring incredible success to Ireland, having won the Six Nations on two occasions, with one being the Grand Slam in 2023 along with four Triple Crowns.

Andy Farrell has been tipped as a potential replacement for Borthwick. (Image: Ramsey Cardy/Sportsfile via Getty Images)

However, there is a core of players he has always called upon when required, but now one of them, James Lowe, looks set to be leaving the setup.

The New Zealand native joined Leinster in 2017 and would spend nine successful seasons at the province, winning five URC’s and a Champions Cup.

Lowe would make his debut for Ireland in November 2020 after completing the required three-year residency, and since this first game against Wales, he has now featured in 45 Tests.

The 33-year-old became a British and Irish Lion in 2025, as he was part of the successful tour of Australia under his Ireland head coach Andy Farrell.

But it has now been reported by the 42ie that he is set to leave Leinster and Ireland at the end of the season as contract talks have stalled.

As it is only a year out from the World Cup and preparation has already begun by Farrell regarding his squad, it seems a strange decision to let the winger depart, as he remained an integral part of the team.

James Lowe of Ireland is tackled by Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii of Australia during the Autumn Nations Series 2024 match between Ireland and Australia (Getty Images)

However, Leinster's and Ireland’s loss could be the benefit of a side in the Top14, PREM or the top flight of Japanese rugby, with it not being clear yet where he will end up should he depart Dublin at the end of the season.

Ireland fans will remember Lowe for the success he helped bring, including two Six Nations titles and three Triple Crowns, but with it appearing that Lowe’s exit is imminent, it could be the end of an era for this international side as other major figures like Bundee Aki and Jamison Gibson-Park move into their twilight years.

Should Lowe depart, it will mean the end of his World Cup hopes for Ireland, as per their selection rules, Farrell can only select individuals playing for an Irish province.