James Lowe

James Lowe is a New Zealand-born winger who qualified for Ireland on residency and became a prolific try-scorer for Leinster and Ireland.

James Francis Rawiri Lowe was born on 8 July 1992 in Nelson, New Zealand, of Māori and English descent, affiliating to the Ngāpuhi and Ngāi Te Rangi iwi. A gifted junior athlete who represented New Zealand's under-15 basketball team, his athletic development was significantly disrupted as a teenager when juvenile rheumatoid arthritis left him bedridden, an experience he has since spoken about candidly as part of mental wellbeing campaigns. Lowe recovered to play for Tasman and the Chiefs in Super Rugby, representing the Māori All Blacks between 2014 and 2017, before moving to Ireland to join Leinster in 2017. Renowned for his powerful running, aerial ability, and clinical finishing on the wing, he quickly became one of the most feared attacking wingers in European rugby. Lowe qualified for Ireland on residency grounds and made his international debut in November 2020, scoring a try, before memorably scoring against his native New Zealand in a home victory for Ireland and helping deliver an historic Test series win in New Zealand in 2022. He was part of Ireland's Grand Slam-winning squad in 2023 and became a fully-fledged Irish citizen in 2025. Lowe was selected for the British & Irish Lions' 2025 tour of Australia, adding to a decorated club career at Leinster that includes European Champions Cup and league titles, completing an unlikely journey from a New Zealand hospital bed to the top of European rugby.

Lowe is an attacking winger known for his pace, footwork, and ability to beat defenders in one-on-one situations. He possesses strong finishing skills and is comfortable under the high ball, making him effective in both attack and defense. His left-footed kicking ability also adds another dimension to his game, providing tactical options for his team.

• Six Nations Grand Slam 2023
• 2025 Lions tourist
• Leinster URC/Champions Cup titles