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Ireland rookie James Lowe admits to being “very proud” after a try-scoring debut helped remove doubts about being on the international stage.
New Zealand-born Lowe came into the spotlight for Friday’s 32-9 Fall Nations Cup win over Wales, as he recently became eligible for Andy Farrell’s team under residency rules. .
The wing justified the hype by showing a constant threat to Wayne Pivac’s visitors and capped off an excellent solo display by landing in the last minute.
“I always wanted to challenge myself on the bigger stage and for this opportunity to come home in quite peculiar circumstances, I am very proud to be fair,” he told the IRFU website.
“Interestingly, you dream of scoring on debut, acting on debut.
“No matter who you are, you always wonder if you should be there and be able to do that, perform well, it means the world.”
Key player for Leinster
Lowe was called up by head coach Farrell after establishing himself as a key player for Leinster with 33 attempts in 49 appearances following his arrival in 2017.
The 28-year-old’s selection came just over a year since he described World Rugby’s residency rules as “stupid” and “weird”, while stating that it would be an “honor” to represent Ireland.
Even though his loyalty to Ireland only developed in the past three years, he seemed extremely emotional during the national anthem of his adopted country.
“I was thinking more about my family,” he explained.
“I was quite (disappointed) that they weren’t here. But that’s what was going through my head.
“I have friends all over the world who wished me (good) messages: past players, coaches, the whole thing. It was a very proud moment, that’s for sure ”.
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