Jack Edward Conan, born on 29 July 1992, is an Irish professional rugby union player known for his role as a number eight. He currently plays for United Rugby Championship club Leinster and represents the Ireland national team.
Conan made his senior debut for Leinster in February 2014, and despite being dropped from the senior squad for the 2014/15 season, he showcased his abilities and was named man-of-the-match against Ulster in January 2015. His outstanding performance included gaining 40 meters and beating 8 defenders.
On 13 January 2017, Conan scored a hat-trick in a European Rugby Champions Cup match against Montpellier. He reached his 100th cap for Leinster in a Pro14 victory over Dragons in February 2021 and was named Player of the Match in Leinster's 16-6 triumph over Munster in the 2021 Pro14 Grand Final.
In terms of his international career, Conan was included in the extended Ireland rugby squad for the 2015 Six Nations Championship, although he didn't feature in any matches during the tournament. He made his debut for Ireland in an August 2015 Rugby World Cup warm-up match against Scotland, starting at flanker. Although he didn't make the 2015 World Cup squad, Conan had to wait almost two years for his next match with Ireland, which took place in June 2017.
Conan's accomplishments also extend to his inclusion in the British & Irish Lions squad for the 2021 tour to South Africa. He started all three test matches against South Africa, highlighting his significant contributions to the team.
Throughout his career, Conan has achieved several honors. With Leinster, he has won the European Rugby Champions Cup in 2018 and secured four Pro14 titles in 2018, 2019, 2020, and 2021.
On the international stage, he has been part of two Six Nations Championship-winning campaigns in 2018 and 2023, as well as two Grand Slam victories in 2018 and 2023. Additionally, Conan has been part of three Triple Crown triumphs in 2018, 2022, and 2023.
Despite facing injury setbacks, Conan's talent and potential have been evident since his early days representing Ireland at U18, U19, and U20 levels.
His impressive performances as a back-rower for Leinster and Ireland, particularly when filling in for renowned players like Sean O'Brien and Rhys Ruddock, have solidified his reputation as a promising player. With a resilient mindset, Conan has overcome challenges and remains focused on reaching new heights in his career.
Ahead of the Rugby World Cup 2023, Conan has been named in the squad for Ireland.
KG(29/06/2023)
Career
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Leinster Rugby No. 8 |
2014 - present |
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British & Irish Lions No. 8 |
2021 - present |
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Irish Wolfhounds No. 8 |
2015 - 2023 |
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Old Belvedere RFC No. 8 |
|
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St Gerards School Bray No. 8 |
|
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Ireland A No. 8 |
2022 - 2023 |
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Ireland No. 8 |
2015 - 2024 |
