It has been confirmed that Isa Nacewa will rejoin Leinster for the start of pre-season training with a view of playing with the team in the 2015-16 campaign. Coach Matt O'Connor also confirmed that the utility back would be returning in a playing capacity only.
Nacewa has been working as a mental skills coach with the Auckland Blues since his retirement from playing after the 2013 season.
The 32-year-old made his debut in 2008 and stayed with Leinster for five seasons before returning home to New Zealand. Had he not previously played for his native Fiji, he would have certainly been capped for Ireland.
During his time in Dublin he made 126 appearances, scoring 24 tries and winning three Heineken Cup titles and a Pro 12 title. His last game was the Pro 12 Final in the RDS against Ulster two years ago, which Leinster won 24-18.
The thinking in Leinster is that playing resources will be stretched next season, especially during and after the World Cup, which begins in England in September.
“We mentioned last week how our resources will be tested during the World Cup window and to be able to bring in a top quality player who we know will contribute massively to the environment when the more experienced lads are away, is huge for us,” said O’Connor.
"When those guys are back, he'll drive it even more. To have Isa return on the back of the news that Johnny (Sexton) is also coming back and Mick Kearney signing, it's been a huge few weeks for us as we look to build for next season."
Leinster Rugby would not comment on the details of Nacewa’s contract but they did confirm that they hoped to be in a position to announce further renewals in the coming weeks.
“I’m very excited to be going back to Leinster. I spent five brilliant seasons there both on and off the pitch and while the decision to leave was right at the time, I also feel now that at 32 years I’ve still got something to give. If I didn’t grab this opportunity, there will always be a sense of ‘what if’,” said Nacewa.
"I am very grateful to John Kirwan and everyone at the Blues for the opportunity of working with them over the last two seasons. It's not a decision Simone and I came to lightly, but we can't wait to get back there and see what comes of it.
“I’ve had a number of chats with Matt obviously around my role but ultimately I just can’t wait to get back onto the pitch, training and playing and of course running out at a full RDS.”
