Former Munster Rugby scrum-half signs first professional contract

FORMER Munster Rugby scrum-half Jack Oliver has put pen to paper on a first professional contract with United Rugby Championship leaders, the Glasgow Warriors.

The 22-year-old made his senior debut in Glasgow colours in the club’s opening match of 2026, coming off the bench in a 47-10 victory over Zebre Parma at Scotstoun, and becomes the first player to graduate from the club’s academy system ahead of the 2026/27 season.

Oliver, a former Ireland U20 international, was a member of the Munster Academy until last season.

Jack Oliver's mum Fiona and grandfather Seanie were at Scotstoun Stadium to see him make his senior competitive debut against Zebre. Jack's late father Greig Oliver was former Elite Player Development Officer with the Munster Rugby Academy and was capped for Scotland at international level.

Jack Oliver joined up with the Glasgow in April 2025 and was named on the academy group for season 2025/2026.

Oliver was born in Melrose, Scotland, but grew up in Limerick. 

The former Castletroy College student joined he Warriors midway through the 2024/25 campaign, representing Glasgow Warriors A and scoring the opening try in a victory away to Benetton in May 2025.

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The scrum-half, who came through the youth system at Garryowen FC, made his second Glasgow Warriors appearance off the bench against Munster last month.

The talented half-back started the 2021/22 season by captaining the Munster U19s during the Interprovincial Championship.

He was selected for the Ireland U18s in 2020 and took part in an Ireland U19s training camp in 2022.

Jack Oliver lined out for the Ireland U20s in 2023 and was a try-scorer on his first Munster start in the pre-season clash against Gloucester in September 2024.

Speaking to the Glasgow Warriors website about signing his first professional contract, Jack Oliver said: “I’m over the moon.

“Earning a pro contract was a big goal of mine when I came over to Glasgow, and I’m delighted that it’s happened so quickly. Hopefully I can kick on now and continue to develop.

“The environment here is top-class. The coaching group and everyone here is brilliant from top to bottom, which makes it a great place to come and play rugby. I love the brand of rugby we play too, and I’m excited to keep pushing on.

“When I first came over I just wanted to put myself forward and impress where I could – I’m pretty happy with how well it’s gone! The coaches and the other scrum-halves here give me a great amount of feedback every session, so I’m always learning and always keen to improve.

“To be able to make my debut in Duncan [Weir]’s last professional game was pretty special, too – I remember watching him on TV growing up and loving how he played the game, so it was an incredible moment and something I’ll never forget.

“I just want to keep improving day by day and play as much as I can. If any opportunities come up, I want to be in the best position possible to help the team as much as I can.”

Head Coach Smith welcomed the news, saying: “Jack is a young player that we believe has great potential, and we have been impressed by his willingness and desire to work hard and learn from those around him.

“He has earned his opportunities this season, giving his all for the Glasgow jersey.

“We look forward to continuing to watch him develop here at Scotstoun and seeing him progress further into the professional game.”