The South Africa-born back-row talent, Josh Neill, has openly committed his future to Leinster and, in an interview with Irish media, stated his aspiration to represent Ireland at the senior level.
The 6-foot-4 blindside flanker was considered one of the most promising prospects emerging from South Africa’s school rugby system. However, when Leinster and the IRFU approached him, Neill, who possesses an Irish passport, declared it was an opportunity he simply couldn’t decline.
“My father’s side of the family is Irish. My grandparents originally arrived as missionaries and settled in Zambia. My dad was born in Zambia before moving to South Africa. That’s essentially where the connection originates,” Neill explained to Virgin Media sports.
This ancestral link, once merely a detail of his family history, became central to a pivotal career choice.
“I wouldn’t say it was always on my radar. As a child, you’re primarily focused on enjoying your rugby. By the time I reached the under-16 level, I received an approach, but I chose to postpone that decision. I was still a 16-year-old and not particularly keen on thinking about life after school.”
“After the international series last August, Leinster and the IRFU made contact, and it started to become clear that I needed to make a choice about my future path. For me, it was simply an incredible chance I couldn’t refuse,” states Neill, who is still just 18 years old.
Neill’s foundational rugby education took place at Rondebosch Boys’ High School, a traditional South African rugby institution renowned for producing generations of elite players.
“Rondebosch played an immense role in my life, and I am extremely thankful for the school and its community. I truly cherished my time at Bosch.”
“Clint [former Ulster player Clinton van Rensburg] was profoundly significant. He was always someone I admired, not just as a coach but as an individual. He’s an extraordinary human being, and he spent a considerable amount of time in Ireland. He was one of the people I spoke to extensively about coming over. He was very complimentary about Ireland and very enthusiastic for me to embark on a new chapter. I am deeply grateful for everything I learned from Clint throughout my period at Bosch.”
Now based in Dublin, Neill is integrated into the Leinster Academy structure and affiliated with Old Wesley RFC as he continues his development.
“I’ve joined the Leinster Academy and Old Wesley, and everyone has been exceptionally helpful. I’m just incredibly excited for what comes next. Naturally, the upcoming game is my primary focus right now, but hopefully, after the Six Nations, I can get back into training and start making progress.”
On the pitch, he has already made a considerable impact in the Six Nations Under 20 Championship, primarily operating at blindside flanker but demonstrating versatility across the entire back row. He has already secured two Man of the Match accolades.
“I would probably say my strongest position is six, but I’m happy to play wherever the team requires me. I’ve played throughout the back row – six, seven, eight. I’ve even started at lock occasionally. Wherever I’m needed, I’m content, because ultimately, it’s just rugby. The number on your back is secondary.”
Ireland’s victory over England U20 has bolstered belief within the squad, though Neill insists that their internal standards remain more rigorous than external expectations.
“I think it has instilled strong conviction and confidence in us, but I believe that conviction was always present. From how we’ve been training during the week, coming off both the Italy and France performances, we recognized we hadn’t yet reached our full potential. I still believe there’s much more to come from this team, much more from these players.”
“Regarding Wales, they’ve experienced some challenging results. They haven’t secured a win, but they’ve pushed opposing teams to their limits. We fully comprehend that a formidable challenge lies ahead of us. They possess a powerful forward pack. In the Six Nations, you can never afford to ease your intensity.”
The choice, once merely a consideration, is now firmly established.
“I have pledged my commitment to Ireland and Leinster, and that’s precisely where I wish to be. That’s the career path I intend to follow, and I’m simply enjoying it and grateful for the opportunity. It is unequivocally where I envision myself in the future.”
“Ultimately, that’s the ultimate aspiration: to don the green Irish jersey.”
