Keith Gerard Earls, born on October 2, 1987, is an Irish professional rugby union player known for his exceptional skills as a wing for Munster in the United Rugby Championship and the Ireland national team.
From an early age, Earls showcased explosive pace, skill, and vision, earning him a spot in the prestigious Munster jersey at the age of 19. Although he initially played as an openside flanker, his move into the midfield during his time at St Munchin's College and St Nessan's Community College marked a turning point in his career, shaping him into the exceptional talent he is today.
Earls returned to St Munchin's College and played a crucial role in securing the Munster Schools Rugby Senior Cup for the college in 2006, alongside his current Munster and Ireland teammate Conor Murray.
His outstanding performances at school level earned him a spot in the Ireland Schools team and a place in the Munster Academy. He represented Ireland at the Under-19 and Under-20 levels, winning a Grand Slam during the 2007 Six Nations Under 20s Championship. Earls also played for Ireland 7s and Munster A before signing a professional contract with Munster and joining Garryowen.
Following his debut for Munster against Ospreys in April 2007, Earls quickly established himself as a key player in both the Munster and Ireland squads. In the 2007-08 season, he was part of the Munster team that clinched victory against Toulouse in the Heineken Cup Final. He made his test debut for Ireland against Canada in 2008, scoring a try with his first touch of the ball.
Earls' outstanding performances on the field earned him a place in the 2009 Lions Tour of South Africa, solidifying his position in both the Munster and Ireland squads.
After a successful 2015 season following his recovery from injury, Earls was selected for the Irish squad in the 2015 Rugby World Cup. Despite speculation about a potential move to Saracens in 2016, he opted to sign a new three-year deal with the Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU) and Munster.
Throughout his career, Earls has showcased his talent on the international stage, representing Ireland in multiple Rugby World Cups and Six Nations tournaments. He has amassed 170 Munster caps, scoring 56 tries for the province, and has made 84 appearances for the Irish national team, scoring 30 tries.
In recognition of his contributions to the sport, Earls has received several accolades, including being named the Munster Rugby Player of the Year in 2018. He continues to be a key figure in both the Munster and Ireland teams, with his contract extension taking him through to the 2023 Rugby World Cup.
Ahead of the Rugby World Cup 2023, Earls has been named in the squad for Ireland.
KG(29/06/2023)
Career
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British & Irish Lions Outside Centre |
2009 - 2009 |
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Irish Wolfhounds Outside Centre |
2015 - 2015 |
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St Munchin's College Right Wing |
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Young Munster RFC Right Wing |
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Garryowen FC Right Wing |
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Munster Rugby Outside Centre |
2007 - 2024 |
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Ireland Outside Centre |
2008 - 2024 |
