Jack O’Sullivan Makes Bold Move to Japan’s Red Hurricanes Osaka After Successful Munster Career

A New Chapter in Japanese Rugby

Former Munster back-rower Jack O’Sullivan has signed with Osaka Red Hurricanes, joining the Japanese club as one of three new overseas signings alongside former Bath lock Elliott Stooke and Moana Pasifika centre Henry Taefu for the 2024-25 season. The team currently competes in the second division of Japan League Rugby One.

Distinguished Career at Munster

O’Sullivan’s departure from Munster comes after making 35 appearances and scoring six tries for his home province since his January 2020 senior debut. His final appearance was as a substitute against Zebre Parma at Virgin Media Park in his native Cork on March 1.

The Cork native, born on October 1, 1998, built his rugby foundation at Presentation Brothers College, where he achieved remarkable success in school rugby. His achievements included winning the Schools Bowen Shield, the Munster Schools Junior Cup in 2014, and captaining the school to victory in the Munster Schools Rugby Senior Cup final in 2017.

International Experience

O’Sullivan’s talent was evident during the 2018 Six Nations Under 20s Championship, where he demonstrated exceptional performance by starting against France, Italy, Wales, Scotland, and England. During this tournament, he impressed with four tries and earned two Man-of-the-Match awards.

The Japanese Challenge

‘I’m excited about the new challenges and opportunities that await me,’ O’Sullivan stated via the Red Hurricanes’ website. He joins Japan’s premier club competition, which showcases several star overseas players and coaches alongside the best Japanese talent, with the fourth edition of NTT Japan Rugby League One kicking off on Saturday, December 21, 2024.

Future Prospects

The Red Hurricanes Osaka, now strengthened with O’Sullivan’s addition, will compete in an increasingly competitive division that includes teams featuring international stars such as Wallaby Rory Arnold’s Hino Red Dolphins and All Black Lima Sopoaga’s Shimizu Koto Blue Sharks.