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Donncha O’Callaghan criticizes Leinster’s decision to sign Rieko Ioane, calling it “bizarre.” The All Blacks star joins on a short-term deal until the end of the season before returning to the Blues for the 2027 Super Rugby Pacific. Fans express dissatisfaction with Ioane’s performances, but O’Callaghan believes the backlash is unwarranted. Tensions arose after Ioane’s clash with Johnny Sexton post-2023 Rugby World Cup, where Sexton recounts a heated exchange in his autobiography. Despite the controversy, O’Callaghan acknowledges Ioane’s talent but questions the fit given Sexton’s issues with him. “I found that to be a weird signing,” he states on The Offload podcast. He thinks Leinster could have explored other options from their own ranks, yet he defends Ioane against what he sees as exaggerated criticism regarding his current form.
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