Particle.news
Download on the App Store

James Lowe Signs Two-Year Deal With Tokyo Suntory Sungoliath

The move is expected to put Lowe outside Ireland’s usual domestic selection pool for the 2027 World Cup.

Overview

  • Tokyo Suntory Sungoliath announced on Monday that Lowe has joined the Japan Rugby League One club on a two-year contract running to 2028.
  • The club presented Lowe as the on-field replacement for Cheslin Kolbe after Kolbe agreed to return to the Stormers.
  • Lowe left Leinster after talks over a new contract broke down and finishes his time in Dublin with 102 appearances and 71 tries for the province.
  • Ireland coach Andy Farrell has not completely ruled out selecting overseas players but the Irish Rugby Football Union has not routinely picked players based abroad, which makes a 2027 recall unlikely for Lowe.
  • Lowe, 34, cited family relocation and a desire for a new cultural experience in Japan and will join a Suntory squad that already includes high-profile internationals such as Sam Cane.