Bernard Jackman reveals why James Lowe will expose reasons for contract farce

The 33-year-old was offered a new deal, but has decided to depart at the end of his current contract.

Despite being a crucial player to Leinster and Ireland, the winger was never offered a "central" contract by the IRFU, meaning he has always remained under Leinster's "provincial contract".

This has left Leinster in complete control over his signature terms and in the end Lowe was offered a lower salary; something that the New Zealand-born man didn't feel reflected his quality.

While it was known Lowe's contract was running up at the end of the season, it was presumed an agreement could be reached in the lead up to the Rugby World Cup next year.

Speaking to RTE's Rugby Podcast, Bernard Jackman insinuated that Lowe will eventually reveal to the public how negotiations went with Leinster and Ireland. (You can view the whole clip below).

Jackman said: "My understanding is that Andy Farrell wanted him.

"The two flight risks this year were Bundee Aki and James Lowe, they were the two players off contract. Bundee got done quite quickly, everybody hoped and assumed (Lowe would as well).

"It was only three weeks ago I heard he was leaving. I was like 'how has that not been sorted?'

"My understanding is that James is very unhappy with how this played out and how he was treated.

"My understanding is that he will tell all when the time is right. I don't think that will be through a book or whatever, but because he's not that kind of lad.

"He's very popular in the dressing room and players are gutted he's leaving.

"It's not great for Irish rugby. It's another little glimpse of that like of alignment where somebody that Farrell wants can't be kept in the country.

"We haven't had many, the last regretted loss was Johnny [Sexton] and he was still able to play for Ireland. In fairness the IRFU have done a good job of getting the main players staying in the country."

We can't wait to hear his point of view!