The IRFU have announced that Jamie Heaslip has signed a contract with the union until the 2019 Rugby World Cup.
Heaslip, who captained Ireland last weekend against Italy, will stay with Leinster for the duration of the contract. He made his debut for the province in 2005, and has made almost 230 appearances in the blue of Leinster.
He made his Ireland debut in the 61-17 win over the Pacific Islands in November 2006. The 33-year-old has won 93 caps for Ireland and he could make his 100th test appearance, against Wales in this year's Six Nations having played five times for the Lions in 2009 and 2013.
Heaslip has had a successful international and domestic career, winning every trophy available to him, apart from the World Cup. He was also shortlisted for the World Rugby Player of the Year Award in 2009 and 2016.
"I'm delighted to be given the opportunity to continue to represent Leinster and Ireland", Heaslip revealed. "My aim when I started my professional rugby career was to leave the jersey – either the blue of Leinster or the green of Ireland in a better place than when I first put it on and this new contract gives me the chance to continue to chase this dream."
"As with each and every professional rugby player we don't do this alone and so I would like to thank my wife Sheena for supporting me always and all the coaches, fellow rugby players and supporters who have helped me live my boyhood dream – of going to work daily with a rugby ball in my hand."
Leinster's CEO Mick Dawson was also delighted with the commitment from Heaslip.
"As a captain, as a vice-captain, as a player, he sets the standard for others to follow and he is an inspiration to the younger players coming through the Sub-Academy and Academy at Leinster."
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