Harlequins have today confirmed wing Louis Lynagh will depart the Club at the end of the season to pursue his international aspirations in Italy.
The Academy product, who joined Quins at U13 level and since achieved 27 tries in 58 senior appearances, will join URC side Benetton Rugby ahead of the 2024/25 season.
Lynagh made his senior debut in 2019 and enjoyed his breakout season in 2020/21, making 11 appearances and scoring six tries. The wing touched down in the Semi-Final against Bristol Bears, before scoring twice in the Final to guide Quins to the Gallagher Premiership title.
The unexpected move to Treviso could offer a fresh start and potentially determine Lynagh’s international allegiance.
spite eligibility for England through residency, Australia through his father, and Italy through his birth and Italian-born mother, Lynagh has kept his international options open.
While the Italian national team, Azzurri, has expressed interest in recruiting Lynagh on multiple occasions, he has yet to commit. However, with no indication of a recall from Steve Borthwick, the possibility of a sensational switch for the talented winger is gaining momentum.
Harlequins Director of Rugby Billy Millard said: “Louis has been a pleasure to work with and we have been proud to see him develop from our Academy to the first-team squad. He has certainly had some great moments in his short career to date and is a popular figure across the Club.
“His 2020/21 season in particular showcased his ability and try-scoring strength. We’re excited to watch his career develop further at Benetton and potentially for Italy. We wish him the very best as he seeks to build his career in Italy.”
Speaking ahead of his departure, Lynagh added: “It’s been a difficult decision to leave my boyhood club, but I feel the time is right for a new challenge in Italy. I have loved my time at Quins and made lifelong friends, working with some of the best players, coaches, and staff, and achieving the ultimate Premiership success in 2021.
“I would like to thank all the Quins fans who have supported me over my career, it’s been amazing to play in front of a packed Stoop every week, and I can’t wait for a massive finish to our season.”
Isuzu Scratch-Card Game:
If you don’t win, don’t worry – you get 2 chances to win every day! Have another attempt by simply answering a quick question following your first unsuccessful scratch.
Don’t forget to come back every day to try and win big!
Four players Steve Borthwick should drop – and who should replace them for Scotland
#1. Fraser Dingwall
Telegraph 5/10: “The try covered a multitude of sins – from George North running straight through him, to not holding his line before passing to Daly.”
Planet Rugby 6/10: “Not a huge carrying threat but a smart operator. Took his try well and is a good distributor on the gain line, although he needs to show more in the rest of the Six Nations.”
Replacement: Ollie Lawrence or Manu Tuilagi (If fit)