Ross Byrne, born on April 8, 1995, is an Irish professional rugby union player who primarily plays as a fly-half. He represents the United Rugby Championship club Leinster and the Ireland national team. Byrne has achieved success at both club and international levels.
Byrne attended St Michael's College, where he honed his rugby skills. He progressed through the ranks and became a member of the Leinster Academy, gaining valuable experience playing for both Leinster and Ireland U20 teams. In 2015, at the age of 21, Byrne was drafted into the Pro12 Squad while still being part of the Academy.
Byrne showcased his talent during the 2016/17 campaign when he was included in the Leinster Champions Cup squad. With limited options at out-half, he demonstrated his skills as a reliable kicker and accurate goal scorer. As a result, he earned a senior contract for the 2017/2018 season.
Byrne's performances for Leinster continued to impress, and he earned a call-up to the Ireland national team for the 2018 Tour to Australia. Although he didn't make his debut in that series, Byrne's progress was recognized, and he entered the 2018/19 season with 49 caps and 228 points for Leinster.
In May 2019, Byrne was selected for the Ireland Rugby World Cup Training Squad, highlighting his potential as a national team player. He went on to receive three caps for Ireland in the 2020 Six Nations Championship squad.
Byrne's accuracy and kicking ability have been his core strengths throughout his career. His performances for Leinster have contributed to the club's success, including winning the European Rugby Champions Cup in 2018 and multiple Pro14 titles.
Byrne's international career gained momentum when he was named in the Ireland squad for the November Internationals in 2018. He continued to make significant contributions, including kicking a late penalty to secure a victory over Australia in November 2022.
In the opening match of the 2023 Six Nations Championship, Byrne replaced Jonathan Sexton as the fly-half and played a crucial role in Ireland's 34-10 win against Wales, scoring a late conversion. He was part of Ireland's successful Six Nations campaign in 2023, winning the championship, Grand Slam, and Triple Crown.
With Leinster, Byrne has won the European Rugby Champions Cup in 2018 and secured four Pro14 titles in 2018, 2019, 2020, and 2021.
On an individual level, Byrne has been recognized for his performances. He was named in the United Rugby Championship Dream Team in 2022 and 2023, showcasing his consistency and skill as a fly-half.
Ross Byrne's career progression and his contributions to both Leinster and the Ireland national team highlight his talent and potential as a prominent figure in Irish rugby.
Ahead of the Rugby World Cup 2023, Byrne has been named in the squad for Ireland.
KG(29/06/2023)
Career
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Leinster Rugby Fly Half |
2015 - present |
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Ireland U20's Fly Half |
2014 - 2015 |
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UCD RFC Fly Half |
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St Michael's College Fly Half |
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Ireland Fly Half |
2018 - 2024 |
