Ireland captain Johnny Sexton says his appetite for success is as strong as ever after signing a one-year extension to his IRFU contract to the end of the 2021/22 season.
The 35-year-old fly-half won his 97th cap for his country in Saturday’s 48-10 victory over Italy in the Guinness Six Nations, kicking 18 points from the tee at the Stadio Olimpico.
Sexton made his Ireland debut in 2009 and is one of Irish rugby’s most decorated players, winning World Player of the Year in 2018 as Ireland claimed the Grand Slam.
He has been central to both Ireland and Leinster’s success for more than a decade, winning three Championship titles with his country and four European Cups with his club side.
And Sexton, who took over the Ireland captaincy from Rory Best in January 2020, insisted the fire is still burning for more silverware success for both club and country.
“I am really enjoying my rugby and I want to keep learning and adding value to both the Ireland and Leinster environments,” said the two-time British & Irish Lions tourist.
“I am enjoying the challenge of captaincy and the added responsibility that it brings.
“My appetite for success is the same as it ever was and the ambitions of both the Ireland and Leinster squads match my own.”
Sexton featured for Ireland in their opening game of the 2021 Championship against Wales before missing to defeat to France as he underwent return to play protocols.
But he returned to skipper his side to their first win of this year’s Guinness Six Nations in Rome, orchestrating the attack as the visitors ran in six tries against the Azzurri.
David Nucifora, IRFU Performance Director, added: “Johnny continues to show he has the quality and appetite to compete at the highest levels.
“He is playing an important leadership role with the Ireland squad and his insight and experience continues to be of great value to the group.”
