All Blacks Star Rieko Ioane Heads to Leinster for 2023/24 Season

New Zealand Centre Confirms Move to Dublin-Based Province

New Zealand centre Rieko Ioane is set to join Leinster for the 2023/24 season, spending six months in Ireland before returning home. The 28-year-old, who has been with the Blues since 2016, will be on a sabbatical from the Super Rugby side.

“Whats up fam just wanted to announce, I’ll be heading to Leinster at the end of the year on a sabbatical break… It’s an exciting opportunity to play in Ireland for an iconic team, grow my game and experience something different with my family.”

– Rieko Ioane

Ioane follows in the footsteps of his international teammate Jordie Barrett, who joined Leinster earlier this year. The Blues have confirmed his departure but anticipate his return in 2027.

Leinster’s Recent Big-Name Signings

Ioane’s move is the latest in a series of high-profile acquisitions for Leinster. The province previously signed Springbok lock RG Snyman from rivals Munster and renewed the contract of French prop Rabah Slimani.

Rising Talent to Learn from Ioane

Leinster head coach Leo Cullen is thrilled about the signing, highlighting the experience and skills Ioane will bring to the team:

“Rieko is a world-class, 81-cap All Black who has been operating at the very top level of the international game and Super Rugby for many seasons… He is an exciting, versatile outside back who will bring pace, rugby skills and experience to Leinster.”

– Leo Cullen, Leinster head coach

With international centres Garry Ringrose and Robbie Henshaw contracted centrally, Ioane’s addition further bolsters Leinster’s squad depth.

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