Michael Bolton Ireland and Leinster second-row Joe McCarthy has signed a new three-year contract that will keep him in Ireland until 2028. McCarthy has been promoted to a central contract after his form with Ireland and Leinster. Since making his debut for Ireland against Australia in 2022, McCarthy has won 17 international caps. He was a key part of Ireland's Guinness Six Nations-wining campaign in 2024 and becomes the youngest player on the IRFU's central contract system. He has played 42 times for Leinster since making his debut in 2022. McCarthy said: “I am delighted to continue my association with Leinster and Ireland and I believe there’s a lot more to come as we build towards an exciting end to the season and beyond. I have loved playing for my home province and representing my country is a huge honour which means the world to me. "I would like to thank my team-mates and coaches for their help and support and I have no doubt that there’s more to come as we collectively build towards the future.” Speaking of McCarthy, IRFU performance director David Humphreys said: “Joe has quickly established himself in the engine room of the Leinster and Ireland packs and we are delighted that he has agreed this new three-year deal. “His application, physicality and talent has enhanced his reputation for club and country and it is a big statement for Irish rugby that one of the top young talents has committed his long-term future here.” Leinster now provide 11 of the 14 players under central contracts. Bundee Aki and Mack Hansen are the players from Connacht, while Munster's Tadhg Beirne is under a central contract. There is currently no player from Ulster on a central contract.