James Lowe on a high as 'project player' set for Ireland debut

This Friday night, Lowe is likely to become one of the last 'project players' to win a first cap for Ireland, when Wales visit Dublin.

James Lowe in Ireland training last month. The New Zealander is in line to win his first cap for his adopted country this weekend against Wales. Picture: Dan Sheridan/Inpho

It was late 2016 when Leinster knew Zane Kirchner was on his way out.

The province, still relatively new to the Leo Cullen era, were eager to get a strong replacement for the Springbok – ideally a player that could add bulk and pace to their backline.