JAMES LOWE has paid tribute to the Irish people after he became an official citizen.
The Ireland and Leinster winger was all smiles alongside wife Arnica at Dublin‘s Convention Centre as they were snapped at the St Valentine’s Day ceremony.
Lowe made his Leinster debut back in 2017, and made his Ireland bow behind closed doors in 2020 during the Covid-19 pandemic.
The New Zealand-native has become a popular figure among fans since, and has racked up 17 tries in 28 caps.
Off the field, meanwhile, he and wife Arnica have welcomed their two kids – Nico and Renn – since moving to the Emerald Isle.
Speaking to IrishRugbyTV, the 32-year-old admitted to finding the initial transition to life in Ireland difficult, but praised the people for making it easier.
He said: “I remember when I first arrived here by myself, it was pitch black at 4.25 pm in the afternoon in November, and it has gone by so quickly.
“We’ve loved our time and what rugby has given us and the opportunities it has presented.
“To represent Ireland in Rugby has been one of the best experiences in our lives.
“It’s something we cherish every day and hopefully, moving forward, a couple more kids can play for Ireland.
“The transition moving to the other side of the world is tough; you leave the safety net of your family and friends but landing here playing rugby with Leinster,
“I already had 40 friends as it was, and then all the partners passed, and present have helped that transition.
“The staff made all the little stuff you don’t think about moving to the other side of the world so much easier, and I’ll forever be grateful for that.
“What the Irish people have done for us has filled us with confidence and joy and feeling accepted.
“We’re just able to go out there and be ourselves and play good rugby and try to be good people.”
James and Arnica tied the knot in Las Vegas in a glamorous wedding three years ago in March 2022.
Lowe popped the question three months prior in November 2021.
They welcomed their first child – Nico – into the world in April 2023, followed by Renn this past January.
Becoming a citizen was a frantic exercise for Lowe, who took part in a training match between the Ireland seniors and Ireland U20s that same morning.
It was all in preparation for this weekend, when Simon Easterby‘s men look to continue their perfect start to the Six Nations against Wales.
The Welsh travel to Dublin still reeling from the sudden departure of head coach Warren Gatland.
