Keith Earls

{{Infobox rugby biography

|name = Keith Earls

|image = Keith Earls 2015 RWC.jpg

|caption = Earls representing Ireland during the 2015 Rugby World Cup

|fullname = Keith Gerard Earls

|birth_date = {{birth date and age|1987|10|2|df=y}}

|birth_place = Moyross, Ireland

|height = {{height|m=1.78}}

|weight = {{convert|87|kg|st lbs|abbr=on}}

|position = Centre, Fullback, Wing

|amatyears1 =

|amatteam1 = Thomond

|amatyears2 =

|amatteam2 = Garryowen

|amatyears3 =

|amatteam3 = Young Munster

|years1 = 2007–2023

|clubs1 = Munster

|apps1 = 202

|points1 = 320

|clubupdate = 27 May 2023

|repyears1 = 2007

|repteam1 = Ireland U20

|repcaps1 = 5

|reppoints1 = 5

|repyears2 = 2007–2015

|repteam2 = Ireland Wolfhounds

|repcaps2 = 8

|reppoints2 = 25

|repyears3 = 2008–2023

|repteam3 = Ireland

|repcaps3 = 101

|reppoints3 = 180

|repupdate = 9 September 2023

|spouse =

|children =

|relatives =

|school = St. Munchin's College

|university =

}}

Keith Gerard Earls (born 2 October 1987) is an Irish former rugby union player who played as a wing for United Rugby Championship club Munster and the Ireland national team. He retired following the 2023 Rugby World Cup.{{cite news|url=https://www.rte.ie/sport/rugby-world-cup/2023/1014/1410945-keith-earls-retires-following-world-cup-exit/|title=Keith Earls retires following World Cup exit|date=14 October 2023|work=RTÉ Sport|access-date=15 October 2023}}

File:keith-earls-munster-rprofile.jpg]]

Early life

Earls was born in Moyross, a council estate in Limerick, to Ger and Sandra Earls. He has one younger sister. Ger was well-known in Limerick for his playing exploits with Thomond and Young Munster, winning the 1992–93 All-Ireland League with the latter, and for being part of the Munster team that beat 1991 World Cup winners Australia in 1992.

Earls first began playing underage rugby for Thomond, as an openside flanker, and started secondary school at St Munchin's College, before moving to St Nessan's Community College, which was closer to home.{{cite news|url=https://www.sportsjoe.ie/rugby/keith-earls-interview-162935|title=Endearing Keith Earls story proves he will never forget his roots|work=SportsJOE|access-date=30 September 2023}} A move into midfield led to Earls being convinced to return to St Munchin's, and he won the Munster Schools Rugby Senior Cup with the college in 2006.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2006/03/17/st-munchins-college-win-munster-schools-senior-cup/|title=St. Munchin's College win Munster Schools Senior Cup|work=Munster Rugby|date=17 March 2006|access-date=24 December 2011}}

Earls went on to play for Ireland Schools and then joined the Munster Academy, during which time he played for Ireland Under-19s, Ireland Under-20s, with whom he won a Grand Slam in the 2007 Six Nations Under 20s Championship, Ireland 7s and Munster A, before earning a professional contract with Munster and moving to Garryowen. Like his father before him, Earls then played for Young Munster.{{cite news|url=http://www.the42.ie/keith-earls-limerick-journey-munster-ireland-3843400-Feb2018/|title='He's in the mould of Anthony Foley' - Keith Earls' journey to the top|date=10 February 2018|work=The42|access-date=10 February 2018}}

Munster

=2006–2012=

Earls made his Munster debut against Ospreys in April 2007.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/no-joy-for-munster-at-the-liberty/|title=No Joy For Munster At The Liberty|work=Munster Rugby|date=8 April 2007|access-date=2 October 2011}} During the 2007–08 season, Earls was part of the Munster squad that beat Toulouse in the 2008 Heineken Cup Final.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2008/05/23/same-again-2/|title=Same Again|work=Munster Rugby|date=23 May 2008|access-date=10 October 2017}}{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-champions-of-europe/|title=Munster Champions of Europe|date=24 May 2008|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=10 October 2017}} In the 2008–09 season, Earls really made his mark in the Munster first team, scoring 10 tries, including a hat-trick in the Celtic League against Dragons in September 2008{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2008/09/14/bonus-point-win-for-munster-7/|title=Bonus Point Win For Munster|work=Munster Rugby|date=14 September 2008}}{{Dead link|date=April 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }} and a brace in the Heineken Cup quarter-final against Ospreys in May 2009{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/heineken-cup-semi-secured/|title=Heineken Cup Semi Secured|work=Munster Rugby|date=12 April 2009|access-date=2 October 2011}}

Earls started against Northampton Saints in Munster's 31–27 round 1 2009–10 Heineken Cup defeat on 10 October 2009.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-just-come-up-short/|title=Munster Just Come Up Short|date=10 October 2009|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=8 December 2013}} Earls also started the 41–10 round 2 win against Benetton on 17 October 2009.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/bonus-point-victory-takes-munster-top/|title=Bonus Point Victory Takes Munster Top|date=17 October 2009|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=8 December 2013}} He then started the 24–23 round 3 win against Perpignan on 11 December 2009.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/ogara-paves-the-way/|title=O'Gara Paves The Way|date=12 December 2009|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=8 December 2013}} He also started the reverse round 4 fixture on 20 December 2009, which Munster won 37–14.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-pass-the-acid-test-with-full-marks/|title=Munster Pass The Acid Test With Full Marks|date=21 December 2009|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=8 December 2013}} Earls scored two tries in the round 5 44–7 win against Benetton on 16 January 2010.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-complete-the-italian-job-in-style/|title=Munster Complete The Italian Job In Style|date=17 January 2010|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=8 December 2013}} Earls also started the 12–9 round 6 victory against Northampton Saints on 22 January 2010.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/the-better-half-makes-all-the-difference/|title=The Better Half Makes All The Difference|date=24 January 2010|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=8 December 2013}} Earls then started the 33–19 quarter-final victory, also against Northampton, on 10 April 2010.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munsters-heineken-cup-continues/|title=Munster's Heineken Cup Continues|date=10 April 2010|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=8 December 2013}} Earls scored a try in Munster's 18–7 semi-final defeat at the hands on Biarritz on 2 May 2010.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-way-below-best/|title=Munster Way Below Best|date=3 May 2010|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=8 December 2013}}

Earls played for Munster during their historic 15–6 win over Australia on 16 November 2010.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/report/class-of-2010-excel/|title=Class of 2010 Excel|work=Munster Rugby|date=17 November 2010|access-date=2 October 2011}} Earls was also part of the Munster team that beat Leinster to win the 2011 Magners League Grand Final.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-crowned-magners-league-champions/|title=Munster Crowned Magners League Champions|work=Munster Rugby|date=28 May 2011|access-date=2 October 2011}} He injured his knee in the first minute of Munster's Pro12 match against Leinster on 4 November 2011,{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2011/11/06/scan-for-earls-tomorrow/|title=Scan For Earls Tomorrow|work=Munster Rugby|date=6 November 2011|access-date=24 December 2011}} and was ruled out for 4–6 weeks.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2011/11/09/munster-squad-for-northampton/|title=Munster Squad For Northampton|work=Munster Rugby|date=9 November 2011|access-date=24 December 2011}} He made his return against Scarlets in Munster's 2011–12 Heineken Cup round 4 fixture on 18 December 2011.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2011/12/15/earls-back-in-munster-side-2/|title=Earls Back In Munster Side|work=Munster Rugby|date=15 December 2011|access-date=24 December 2011}}

Earls also started against Castres on 14 January 2012.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/report/fifth-successive-wins-sees-munster-through/|title=Fifth Successive Win Sees Munster Through|date=15 January 2012|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=8 December 2013}} He also started in Munster's 51–26 win against Northampton Saints on 21 January 2012.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-close-the-deal/|title=Munster Close The Deal|date=22 January 2012|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=8 December 2013}} Earls started in Munster's 2011–12 Heineken Cup quarter-final loss to Ulster on 8 April 2012.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-go-crashing-out/|title=Munster Go Crashing Out|date=8 April 2012|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=8 December 2013}} He also started for Munster in their 45–10 defeat against Ospreys in the semi-final of the 2011–12 Pro12.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/no-consolation-of-any-sort-in-this-result/|title=No Consolation Of Any Sort In This Result|date=12 May 2012|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=8 December 2013}} Earls started against Saracens on 8 December 2012.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-show-their-gritty-side-2/|title=Munster Show Their Gritty Side|date=10 December 2012|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=8 December 2013}}

=2013–2023=

Earls started against Edinburgh on 13 January 2013.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-win-in-murrayfield-2/|title=Munster Win In Murrayfield|date=13 January 2013|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=8 December 2013}} Earls started against Racing 92 on 20 January 2013.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-go-through/|title=Munster Go Through|date=21 January 2013|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=8 December 2013}} Earls started Munster's 16–10 2012–13 Heineken Cup semi-final defeat against Clermont Auvergne on 27 April 2013.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-lose-a-game-of-two-halves/|title=Munster Lose A Game Of Two Halves|date=28 April 2013|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=8 December 2013}}

Earls scored a try in Munster's 19–15 victory against Leinster on 5 October 2013.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-win-derby-battle/|title=Munster Win Derby Battle|date=5 October 2013|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=8 December 2013}} He started in the 29–23 loss to Edinburgh in round 1 of the 2013–14 Heineken Cup on 12 October 2013.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/disappointing-defeat-in-murrayfield/|title=Disappointing Defeat In Murrayfield|date=12 October 2013|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=8 December 2013}} He also started the 26–10 win against Gloucester in round 2 on 19 October 2013.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/heineken-cup-win-in-thomond-park/|title=Heineken Cup Win In Thomond Park|date=19 October 2013|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=8 December 2013}} He won the Man-of-the-Match award in Munster's round 3 36–8 win against Perpignan on 8 December 2013.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-top-of-group-after-bonus-point-win/|title=Munster Top Of Group After Bonus-Point Win|date=8 December 2013|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=8 December 2013}} Earls also started the reverse fixture away to Perpignan on 14 December 2013.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-claim-last-gasp-win-in-perpignan/|title=Munster Claim Last-Gasp Win In Perpignan|date=14 December 2013|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=14 December 2013}} He started the 20–7 away win against Gloucester on 11 January 2013, scoring a try in a win that secured quarter-final qualification.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/quarter-final-place-secured/|title=Quarter Final Place Secured|date=12 January 2014|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=12 January 2014}} Earls started against Edinburgh in the round 6 fixture on 19 January 2014, but went off injured in the first-half.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/bonus-point-munster-move-into-home-quarters/|title=Bonus-Point Munster Move Into Home Quarters|date=19 January 2014|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=19 January 2014}} It was announced on 21 January 2014 that Earls had signed a new two-year contract.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2014/01/21/keith-earls-commits-future-to-munster-2/|title=Keith Earls Commits Future To Munster|date=21 January 2014|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=21 January 2014}} After having a scan on the injury he suffered in the Edinburgh game, Earls was ruled out for 6–8 weeks.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2014/01/23/earls-injury-update-2/|title=Earls Injury Update|date=23 January 2014|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=23 January 2014}} Earls started in Munster's Heineken Cup quarter-final against Toulouse on 5 April 2014, scoring a try in the 47-23 win.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/vintage-munster-storm-into-semis/|title=Vintage Munster Storm Into Semis|date=5 April 2014|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=5 April 2014}} He started in Munster's 24–16 semi-final defeat to Toulon on 27 April 2014.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/toulon-end-munsters-european-campaign/|title=Toulon End Munster's European Campaign|date=27 April 2014|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=27 April 2014}}

Earls was ruled out for four months in September 2014 with a knee injury which required surgery.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2014/09/30/injury-update-keith-earls-2/|title=Injury Update: Keith Earls|date=30 September 2014|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=30 September 2014}} He returned from the injury against Zebre on 10 January 2015.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/bonus-point-victory-in-parma/|title=Bonus Point Victory In Parma|date=10 January 2015|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=17 January 2015}} Earls came off the bench against Saracens in round 5 of the 2014–15 European Rugby Champions Cup on 17 January 2015, winning his 100th cap for Munster.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2015/01/15/earls-edges-closer-to-100/|title=Earls Edges Closer To 100|date=15 January 2015|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=17 January 2015}}{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-lose-out-in-london/|title=Munster Lose Out In London|date=17 January 2015|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=17 January 2015}} He started against Sale Sharks on 25 January 2015, scoring a try in the 65–10 win.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-finish-with-flourish/|title=Munster Finish With Flourish|date=25 January 2015|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=25 January 2015}} Earls scored a try and won the Man-of-the-Match award in Munster's 22–10 win against Glasgow Warriors on 28 February 2015.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/winning-ways-continue-in-cork-2/|title=Winning Ways Continue In Cork|date=28 February 2015|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=1 March 2015}} He scored a try in Munster's 42–20 win against Connacht on 28 March 2015.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/bonus-point-win-at-thomond-park/|title=Bonus Point Win At Thomond Park|date=28 March 2015|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 March 2015}} Earls scored a try in the 34–3 away win against Edinburgh on 11 April 2015.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/bonus-point-win-at-murrayfield/|title=Bonus Point Win At Murrayfield|date=11 April 2015|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=11 April 2015}}

Earls started the opening pool game of the 2015–16 European Rugby Champions Cup against Benetton on 14 November 2015.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/job-done-in-thomond/|title=Job Done In Thomond|date=14 November 2015|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=14 November 2015}} He started against Leicester Tigers in the Champions Cup on 12 December 2015.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/tigers-pounce-in-thomond/|title=Tigers Pounce In Thomond|date=12 December 2015|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=13 December 2015}} In January 2016, Earls signed a new three-year contract with Munster and the IRFU.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2016/01/27/murray-earls-commit-to-munster/|title=Murray & Earls Commit To Munster|date=27 January 2016|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=27 January 2016}} On 22 October 2016, Earls was sent-off in Munster's 38–17 win against Glasgow Warriors in round 2 of the 2016–17 European Rugby Champions Cup.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-do-foley-proud-with-immense-display/|title=Munster Do Foley Proud With Immense Display|date=22 October 2016|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=22 October 2016}} He was subsequently banned for two weeks.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2016/10/26/keith-earls-suspended-for-two-weeks/|title=Keith Earls Suspended For Two Weeks|date=26 October 2016|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=26 October 2016}} On 7 January 2017, Earls won his 50th cap in the European Cup during Munster's 32–7 away win against Racing 92.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-deliver-winning-performance/|title=Munster Deliver Winning Performance|date=7 January 2017|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=7 January 2017}} Earls scored two tries in Munster's 23–17 defeat at the hands of Leinster in the 2017–18 Pro14 on 7 October 2017.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/report/indiscipline-proves-costly-dublin/|title=Indiscipline Proves Costly In Dublin|date=7 October 2017|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=10 October 2017}} He scored a try and earned the Man-of-the-Match award in Munster's 48–3 win against Castres on 21 January 2018, a win that secured a home quarter-final in the 2017–18 European Rugby Champions Cup.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/report/complete-performance-secures-17th-quarter-final-spot/|title=Complete Performance Secures 17th Quarter-Final Spot|date=21 January 2018|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=22 January 2018}}

A knee injury sustained during the Six Nations with Ireland ruled Earls out for 6 weeks.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2018/03/23/player-update-5/|title=Player Update|date=23 March 2018|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=24 March 2018}} He won his 150th cap for Munster in the provinces 27–22 Champions Cup semi-final defeat at the hands of Racing 92 on 22 April 2018.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/report/munsters-champions-cup-dream-ends-in-bordeaux/|title=Munster's Champions Cup Dream Ends In Bordeaux|date=22 April 2018|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=23 April 2018}} Earls was named the 2018 Munster Rugby Player of the Year in April 2018, having previously been nominated for the same award in 2010. Earls was also the Munster Academy Player of the Year and Young Player of the Year in 2007 and 2009 respectively, making him the first Munster player to win all three awards.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2018/04/19/munster-rugby-player-of-the-year-nominees/|title=Munster Rugby Player Of The Year Nominees|date=19 April 2018|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=19 April 2018}}{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2018/04/25/earls-named-munster-player-of-the-year/|title=Earls Named Munster Player Of The Year|date=25 April 2018|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=25 April 2018}} He scored a try and won the Man-of-the-Match award in Munster's 20–16 win against Edinburgh on 5 May 2018, a win that saw Munster progress to the semi-finals of the 2017–18 Pro14.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-edinburgh/|title=Munster Into PRO14 Semi-Finals After Edging Out Edinburgh|date=5 May 2018|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=6 May 2018}}

In his first appearance of the 2018–19 season on 29 September 2018, Earls scored a try in Munster's 64–7 win against Ulster in round 5 of the 2018–19 Pro14.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/report/report-record-win-for-munster-over-ulster/|title=Report {{!}} Record PRO14 Win For Munster Over Ulster|date=29 September 2018|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=30 September 2018}} Earls signed a contract extension with Munster and the IRFU in October 2018.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2018/10/25/keith-earls-signs-irfu-contract-extension-to-2021/|title=Keith Earls Signs IRFU Contract Extension To 2021|date=25 October 2018|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=25 October 2018}} He scored a hat-trick of tries in Munster's 44–14 win against Edinburgh on 30 November 2018.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2018/11/30/report-munster-ease-past-edinburgh/|title=Report {{!}} Munster Ease Past Edinburgh|date=30 November 2018|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=30 November 2018}} Earls scored two tries, the latter the match-winner, in Munster 17–13 win against Edinburgh in their 2018–19 European Rugby Champions Cup quarter-final on 30 March 2019.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/report/report-munster-into-14th-european-semi-final/|title=Report {{!}} Munster Into 14th European Semi-Final|date=30 March 2019|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=30 March 2019}}

Earls signed a one-year contract extension with the IRFU in March 2021,{{cite news|url=https://www.the42.ie/keith-earls-3-5375258-Mar2021/|title=Earls signs one-year contract extension with IRFU|date=8 March 2021|work=The42|access-date=9 March 2021}} and scored two tries in Munster's 40–33 home defeat against Toulouse in the last 16 of the 2020–21 Champions Cup on 3 April 2021.{{cite news|url=https://www.irishexaminer.com/sport/rugby/arid-40257980.html|title=Toulouse run in four second-half tries to send Munster out of Champions Cup|date=3 April 2021|work=Irish Examiner|access-date=3 April 2021}} Earls signed a contract extension with Munster and the IRFU until the end of the 2023 Rugby World Cup in May 2022.{{cite news|url=https://www.the42.ie/keith-earls-contract-extension-5779343-May2022/|title=Keith Earls signs contract extension until 2023 World Cup|date=31 May 2022|work=The42|access-date=1 June 2022}} Having suffered a thigh injury minutes into his first appearance of the season for Munster in September 2022, Earls returned after 11 weeks out as a replacement in Munster's 18–13 defeat at home against Toulouse in round one of the 2022–23 Champions Cup on 11 December 2022.{{cite news|url=https://www.irishexaminer.com/sport/rugby/arid-41026382.html|title=Munster fall to Toulouse at Thomond in Champions Cup opener|date=11 December 2022|newspaper=Irish Examiner|access-date=11 December 2022}}

Earls earned his 200th cap for Munster in their 22–22 draw away to South African the Sharks in round 18 of the 2022–23 United Rugby Championship on 22 April 2023, becoming the fourteenth player to do so for the province.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2023/04/20/keith-earls-set-to-join-munster-200-club/#post|title=Keith Earls Set To Join Munster 200 Club|date=20 April 2023|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=22 April 2023}}{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/report-munster-secure-5th-place-after-sharks-draw/|title=Report {{!}} Munster Secure 5th-Place After Sharks Draw|date=22 April 2023|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=23 April 2023}} He came on as a replacement in Munster's 19–14 win against the Stormers in the final of the 2022–23 United Rugby Championship on 27 May 2023.{{cite news|url=https://www.irishexaminer.com/sport/rugby/arid-41149351.html|title=Magical Munster see off Stormers to win URC title and end trophy drought|date=27 May 2023|work=Irish Examiner|access-date=27 May 2023}} Following Ireland's exit from the 2023 Rugby World Cup on 14 October, Earls, whose contract with the IRFU expired after the tournament, confirmed his retirement from rugby.

Ireland

=2008–2013=

Earls made his debut for Ireland in November 2008 against Canada in Thomond Park. He scored his first international try with his first touch of the ball.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/5240.php|title=Ireland Begin Kidney Era With Comfortable Win|work=Irish Rugby|date=8 November 2008|access-date=2 October 2011}} Earls was selected in Ireland's squad for the 2009 November Tests. He came on for the injured Luke Fitzgerald against Australia{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/5269.php|title=O'Driscoll Try Snatches Late Draw For Ireland|date=15 November 2009|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=10 October 2017}} and started against Fiji, a game in which he scored two tries, and South Africa.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/5254.php|title=Ireland Run Out Comfortable Winners Over Fiji|date=21 November 2009|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=10 October 2017}}{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/5277.php|title=Springboks Succumb to Inspired Ireland|date=28 November 2009|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=10 October 2017}} He played in all 5 of Ireland's 2010 Six Nations Championship games, starting 4 of them. He scored a try against England and scored two more against Wales, finishing as joint top try scorer with Tommy Bowe, Shane Williams and James Hook.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/5713.php|title=Two-Try Ireland Grind Out Opening Win|date=6 February 2010|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=10 October 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161206150304/http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/5713.php|archive-date=6 December 2016|url-status=dead}}{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/5724.php|title=Ireland Suffer Heavy Paris Defeat|date=13 February 2010|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=10 October 2017}}{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/5728.php|title=Twickenham Thriller Has Sweet Finish For Ireland|date=27 February 2010|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=10 October 2017}}{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/5734.php|title=Wales Brushed Aside By Three-Try Ireland|date=13 March 2010|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=10 October 2017}}{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/5735.php|title=Parks Helps Scotland Spoil Croke Park Finale|date=20 March 2010|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=10 October 2017}}

Earls was selected in Ireland's squad for their 2010 tour of New Zealand and Australia, though he had to pull out of the squad due to a groin injury.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/news/19516.php#.Wdz7emhSzIU|title=Earls Ruled Out Of Summer Tour|date=3 June 2010|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=10 October 2017}} He was in the Ireland squad for the 2010 Autumn Tests, coming on against South Africa, New Zealand and Argentina.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/5253.php|title=Late Rally Not Enough For Ireland|date=6 November 2010|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=10 October 2017}}{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/5292.php|title=All Blacks Prevail Despite Inspired Irish Display|date=20 November 2010|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=10 October 2017}}{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/5247.php|title=Ireland Finish Series With Record Win Over Pumas|date=28 November 2010|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=10 October 2017}} He started every game for Ireland during the 2011 Six Nations Championship, four on the left-wing and one at fullback.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/5720.php|title=O'Gara Kicks Ireland To Nail-Biting Victory|date=5 February 2011|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=10 October 2017}}{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/5712.php|title=Ireland Miss Out In Frantic Finish|date=13 February 2011|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=10 October 2017}}{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/5733.php|title=Try Haul Helps Ireland Defeat Scotland|date=27 February 2011|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=10 October 2017}}{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/5723.php|title=Ireland Beaten In Cardiff Cliffhanger|date=12 March 2011|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=10 October 2017}}{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/5731.php|title=Super-Charged Ireland Storm To Victory|date=19 March 2011|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=10 October 2017}}

Earls was selected in Ireland's squad for the 2011 Rugby World Cup warm-ups in August,{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/news/6752.php#.Wdz9vmhSzIU|title=Ireland Training Squad Is Announced|work=Irish Rugby|date=17 June 2011|access-date=10 October 2017}} playing in both tests against France.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/5242.php|title=Improved Second Half Sees Ireland Go Close|date=13 August 2011|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=11 October 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161206145849/http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/5242.php|archive-date=6 December 2016|url-status=dead}}{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/5279.php|title=Late Surge Not Enough Against In-Form France|date=20 August 2011|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=11 October 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161206145858/http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/5279.php|archive-date=6 December 2016|url-status=dead}} He was selected in Ireland's final 30-man squad for the World Cup in New Zealand.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/news/6810.php#.Wd2xRviGPIU|title=Ireland Rugby World Cup Squad Announcement|work=Irish Rugby|date=22 August 2011|access-date=2 October 2011}} He started on the wing against the United States in Ireland's first Pool C game, and again against Australia during their historic 15–6 victory over the Wallabies. He was switched to outside-centre against Russia and scored two tries. He returned to the left-wing for Ireland's final Pool C game against Italy and, on his birthday, scored a brace of tries in the 36-6 win.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/1561.php|title=Ireland Off To Winning Start As Bowe Bags Brace|date=11 September 2011|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=11 October 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171011184115/http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/1561.php|archive-date=11 October 2017|url-status=dead}}{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/1562.php|title=Inspired Ireland Create History In Auckland|date=17 September 2011|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=11 October 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171011132048/http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/1562.php|archive-date=11 October 2017|url-status=dead}}{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/1563.php|title=Ireland Rack Up Tries In Rotorua Victory|date=25 September 2011|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=11 October 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161206155649/http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/1563.php|archive-date=6 December 2016|url-status=dead}}{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/rugby_union/15058766.stm|title=Rugby World Cup 2011: Ireland 36-6 Italy|work=BBC Sport|publisher=BBC|date=2 October 2011|access-date=2 October 2011}} He scored his fifth World Cup try in Ireland's quarter-final defeat at the hands of Wales.{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/rugby_union/14830264.stm|title=Rugby World Cup 2011: Wales 22-10 Ireland|work=BBC Sport|publisher=BBC|date=8 October 2011|access-date=8 October 2011}} This total of five tries made him Ireland's top try scorer at the 2011 Rugby World Cup.

Earls was selected in Ireland's 24-man squad for the 2012 Six Nations Championship.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/news/6870.php#.Wd2y0PiGPIU|title=Ireland And O2 Ireland Wolfhounds Squads Announced|work=Irish Rugby|date=18 January 2012|access-date=20 January 2012}} He was named in the team to face Wales in the opening fixture,{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/news/3457.php#.Wd2zHPiGPIU|title=Ireland Team To Play Wales|work=Irish Rugby|date=1 February 2012|access-date=5 February 2012}} but had to withdraw from the team when his recently born daughter was taken ill. His place at outside centre was taken by Fergus McFadden.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/news/3434.php#.Wd2zSPiGPIU|title=Late Change To Ireland Team|work=Irish Rugby|date=3 February 2012|access-date=5 February 2012}} He returned to the Ireland team for their game against Italy, scoring a try, and played against France, Scotland and England.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/5725.php|title=Confidence-Boosting Display Gets Ireland Off The Mark|date=25 February 2012|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=11 October 2017}}{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/5727.php|title=Bowe Brace Not Enough As Ireland Draw With France|date=4 March 2012|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=11 October 2017}}{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/5717.php|title=Four-Try Ireland See Off Scottish Challenge|date=10 March 2012|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=11 October 2017}}{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/rugby-union/17391486|title=Six Nations: England 30-9 Ireland|date=17 March 2012|work=BBC Sport|access-date=11 October 2017}}

Earls played at inside centre for Ireland in the first test against New Zealand on 9 June 2012, as part of a new centre-combination with Brian O'Driscoll.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/5301.php|title=Ireland Open Series With Auckland Defeat|date=9 June 2012|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=1 July 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161206150102/http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/5301.php|archive-date=6 December 2016|url-status=dead}} Earls missed the second test due to a pectoral injury,{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2012/06/11/earls-ruled-out-of-second-test/|title=Earls Ruled Out Of Second Test|date=11 June 2012|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=1 July 2012}} but returned to start the third test, this time on the left-wing.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/5304.php|title=Ireland End Tour With Heavy Loss|date=23 June 2012|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=1 July 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151202125626/http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/5304.php|archive-date=2 December 2015|url-status=dead}} Earls started at 13 for Ireland in the opening 2012 Guinness Series test against South Africa on 10 November 2012,{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/5251.php|title=Ireland Lose Tight Encounter With Springboks|date=10 November 2012|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=1 December 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151202130205/http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/5251.php|archive-date=2 December 2015|url-status=dead}} and again against Argentina on 24 November 2012.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/5238.php|title=Tries Flow As Ireland Pummel Pumas|date=24 November 2012|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=1 December 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140613083918/http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/5238.php|archive-date=13 June 2014|url-status=dead}}

Earls was named in Ireland squad for the 2013 Six Nations Championship on 17 January 2013,{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/news/3491.php#.Wd3Hz_iGPIU|title=Ireland Training Squad Announced|date=17 January 2013|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=21 January 2013}} and came off the bench against Wales in Ireland's opening 30–22 win,{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/28399.php|title=Cardiff Cracker Gets Ireland Up And Running|date=2 February 2013|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=3 February 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150615032118/http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/28399.php|archive-date=15 June 2015|url-status=dead}} and their 12–6 defeat against England on 10 February 2013.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/28417.php|title=Penalties Decide It As Ireland Lose Brutal Contest|date=10 February 2013|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=10 February 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151123224002/http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/28417.php|archive-date=23 November 2015|url-status=dead}} He came into the starting XV against Scotland after Simon Zebo's injury, starting in his place on the left-wing.{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/rugby-union/21540230|title=Six Nations: Scotland beat Ireland in Murrayfield turnaround|date=24 February 2013|work=BBC Sport|access-date=3 March 2013}} He continued there in the 13–13 draw against France.{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/rugby-union/21706934|title=Six Nations 2013: France recover to draw with Ireland|date=9 March 2013|work=BBC Sport|access-date=10 March 2013}} He started against Italy in the final game of the tournament, but went off injured in the 24th minute.{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/rugby-union/21789586|title=Six Nations 2013: Italy 22-15 Ireland|date=16 March 2013|work=BBC Sport|access-date=10 May 2013}} On 23 October 2013, Earls was named in the Ireland squad for the 2013 Autumn Tests.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/news/27585.php#.Wd3I6_iGPIU|title=Ireland Squad Announced For GUINNESS Series|date=23 October 2013|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=2 November 2013}}

=2014–2018=

Earls was named in the Ireland squad for their 2014 Tour to Argentina on 19 May 2014.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/news/31826.php#.Wd3JS_iGPIU|title=Four Uncapped Players In Ireland's Summer Tour Squad|date=19 May 2014|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=19 May 2014}} However, Earls was ruled out of the tour with a viral infection.{{cite news|url=http://www.independent.ie/sport/keith-earls-and-marty-moore-to-miss-argentina-tour-as-joe-schmidt-confirms-john-plumtree-exit-30320353.html|title=Keith Earls and Marty Moore to miss Argentina tour as Joe Schmidt confirms John Plumtree exit|date=1 June 2014|work=Irish Independent|access-date=25 June 2014}} Earls started for Ireland Wolfhounds in their game against England Saxons on 30 January 2015.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/33675.php|title=Wolfhounds Lose To Saxons In Scrappy Cork Clash|date=30 January 2015|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=2 February 2015}} He was named in the Ireland squad for the opening rounds of the 2015 Six Nations Championship on 1 February 2015.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/news/33685.php#.Wd3KGviGPIU|title=Ireland Name 38-Man Squad For Six Nations Opening Rounds|date=1 February 2015|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=2 February 2015}}

Earls was named in the 45-man training squad for the 2015 Rugby World Cup on 24 June 2015.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/news/34885.php#.Wd3KqfiGPIV|title=45 Players Named In Ireland Training Squad|date=24 June 2015|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=24 June 2015}} He started in the first World Cup warm-up against Wales on 8 August 2015, scoring a try and earning the Man-of-the-Match award in the 35–21 win for Ireland.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/35168.php|title=Ireland Win Opening Warm-Up Clash In Cardiff|date=8 August 2015|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=8 August 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150829192215/http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/35168.php|archive-date=29 August 2015|url-status=dead}} He started the warm-up game against Wales on 29 August 2015.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/35375.php|title=Tipuric And Halfpenny Guide Wales To Dublin Victory|date=29 August 2015|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=29 August 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150831202748/http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/35375.php|archive-date=31 August 2015|url-status=dead}} Earls was selected in the final 31-man squad for the World Cup when it was announced on 1 September 2015.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/news/35385.php#.Wd3LB_iGPIU|title=Ireland Squad Named For Rugby World Cup|date=1 September 2015|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=1 September 2015}} He started the opening pool game against Canada on 19 September 2015.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/35581.php|title=Bonus Point Win Gets Ireland Off To Satisfying World Cup Start|date=19 September 2015|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=19 September 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150928143035/http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/35581.php|archive-date=28 September 2015|url-status=dead}} Earls started the second pool game against Romania on 27 September 2015, scoring two tries and earning the Man-of-the-Match award in Ireland's 44–10 win.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/35654.php|title=Ireland Back On Top After Second Bonus Point Victory|date=27 September 2015|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=27 September 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150928204630/http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/35654.php|archive-date=28 September 2015|url-status=dead}} He started the third pool game against Italy on 4 October 2015, scoring Ireland's only try in their 16–9 win and, in doing so, overtaking Brian O'Driscoll as Ireland's leading try-scorer in Rugby World Cup history.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/35736.php|title=Earls' Eighth RWC Try Sends Ireland Through To Quarter-Finals|date=4 October 2015|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=4 October 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151006094120/http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/35736.php|archive-date=6 October 2015|url-status=dead}} Earls started Ireland's 24–9 win against France on 11 October 2015.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/35803.php|title=Ireland Beat Les Bleus To Set Up Quarter-Final Against Argentina|date=11 October 2015|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=11 October 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151014221634/http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/35803.php|archive-date=14 October 2015|url-status=dead}} He started for Ireland in the 43–20 quarter-final defeat against Argentina on 18 October 2015.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/35986.php|title=Ireland's World Cup Journey Ended By Four-Try Pumas|date=18 October 2015|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=18 October 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151021201843/http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/35986.php|archive-date=21 October 2015|url-status=dead}}

On 20 January 2016, Earls was named in Ireland's 35-man squad for the 2016 Six Nations Championship.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/news/36692.php#.Wd3MLfiGPIU|title=Ireland Squad Named For Opening Rounds Of RBS Six Nations|date=20 January 2016|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=20 January 2016}} On 7 February 2016, he started against Wales in Ireland's opening match of the Six Nations.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/36857.php|title=Ireland And Wales Play Out Pulsating Draw In Dublin|date=7 February 2016|work=irishrugby.ie|access-date=7 February 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160208012601/http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/36857.php|archive-date=8 February 2016|url-status=dead}} He missed the game against France on 13 February, but returned to start for Ireland against England, Italy and Scotland.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/news/36904.php#.Wd3MzfiGPIU|title=Kearney And O'Brien Back For Ireland|date=11 February 2016|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=11 October 2017}}{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/rugby-union/35659363|title=Six Nations 2016: England beat Ireland to go top of table|date=27 February 2016|work=BBC Sport|access-date=11 October 2017}}{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/37122.php|title=Ireland Enjoy Record Nine-Try Triumph Over Italy|date=12 March 2016|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=11 October 2017}}{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/37178.php|title=Ireland Finish Six Nations On A Winning Note|date=19 March 2016|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=11 October 2017}} On 25 May 2016, Earls was named in the 32-man Ireland squad to tour South Africa in a 3-test series.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/news/37512.php#.Wd3ZEviGPIU|title=Two Uncapped Players Named For Summer Tour|date=25 May 2016|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=25 May 2016}} On 11 June 2016, Earls started in Ireland's historic first test win against South Africa in South Africa.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/37600.php|title=14-Man Ireland Stand Firm For Famous Tour Win|date=11 June 2016|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=11 June 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160614062515/http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/37600.php|archive-date=14 June 2016|url-status=dead}} He missed the second test defeat, but returned to the starting XV for the third test, which Ireland lost 19–13.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/news/37634.php#.Wd3a1PiGPIU|title=Ireland Make Five Changes For Second Test In South Africa|date=16 June 2016|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=11 October 2017}}{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/rugby-union/36608687|title=South Africa beat Ireland in the third Test to win series 2-1|date=25 June 2016|work=BBC Sport|access-date=11 October 2017}} On 26 October 2016, Earls was named in Ireland's squad for the 2016 end-of-year rugby union internationals.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/news/38355.php#.Wd3crviGPIU|title=Six Uncapped Players In Ireland Squad|date=26 October 2016|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=26 October 2016}} However, his two-week suspension as a result of the red card he received against Glasgow Warriors meant that Earls missed Ireland's historic first ever victory against New Zealand in Soldier Field, Chicago on 5 November 2016.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/news/38356.php#.Wd3dK_iGPIU|title=Earls Suspended For Two Weeks|date=26 October 2017|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=11 October 2017}} He returned to the Ireland team for their 55–21 victory against Canada, scoring a try, and also scored a try in the 27–24 win against Australia.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/38490.php|title=Ireland Win GUINNESS Series Opener With Eight New Caps|date=12 November 2016|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=11 October 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161113121339/http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/38490.php|archive-date=13 November 2016|url-status=dead}}{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/38622.php|title=Injury-Hit Ireland Dig Deep To End Series On A High|date=26 November 2016|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=11 October 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161220230653/http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/38622.php|archive-date=20 December 2016|url-status=dead}}

On 23 January 2017, Earls was named in the Ireland squad for the opening two rounds of the 2017 Six Nations Championship.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2017/01/23/13-munster-players-in-ireland-squad-2/|title=13 Munster Players In Ireland Squad|date=23 January 2017|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=23 January 2017}} In Ireland's opening fixture of the tournament against Scotland on 4 February, Earls scored a try, though Ireland lost 27–22.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/39042.php|title=Ireland Let Lead Slip As Laidlaw Kicks Scotland To Deserved Win|date=4 February 2017|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=11 October 2017|archive-date=7 February 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170207073153/http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/39042.php|url-status=dead}} On 11 February, Earls scored two tries in Ireland's 63–10 win in the Stadio Olimpico against Italy.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/39083.php|title=Ireland Notch Nine Tries In Rome Rout|date=11 February 2017|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=11 February 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170212163937/http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/39083.php|archive-date=12 February 2017|url-status=dead}} He also started against France, Wales and England.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/39171.php|title=Ireland Pass French Test To Stay In Title Contention|date=25 February 2017|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=11 October 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170227063909/http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/39171.php|archive-date=27 February 2017|url-status=dead}}{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/39262.php|title=Mistakes Cost Ireland as Three-Try Wales Emerge Triumphant|date=10 March 2017|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=11 October 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170326054206/http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/39262.php|archive-date=26 March 2017|url-status=dead}}{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/39308.php|title=Ireland Dig Deep To Deny England A Dublin Grand Slam|date=18 March 2017|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=11 October 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170321170739/http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/39308.php|archive-date=21 March 2017|url-status=dead}} He was also selected in the squad for the 2017 Summer Tour against the United States and Japan.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2017/05/16/schmidt-includes-9-munster-players-for-summer-tour/|title=Schmidt Includes 9 Munster Players For Summer Tour|date=16 May 2017|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=16 May 2017}} On 10 June 2017, in the one-off test against the United States, Earls scored two tries, made three assists and won the Man-of-the-Match award in Ireland's 55–19 win in the Red Bull Arena, New Jersey.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/39930.php|title=Earls Excels As Ireland Kick Off Tour With New Jersey Win|date=11 June 2017|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=11 June 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170613140549/http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/39930.php|archive-date=13 June 2017|url-status=dead}} On 17 June 2017, Earls again scored two tries, this time in Ireland's 50–22 win against Japan in Shizuoka Stadium, Shizuoka. His tally of nine tries in an international season set a new record for Ireland.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/39976.php|title=Strong Start Sets Ireland Up For Well-Earned Victory|date=17 June 2017|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=17 June 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171031073756/http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/39976.php|archive-date=31 October 2017|url-status=dead}} He also started the second test against Japan, which Ireland won 35–13 to seal the series victory.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/40025.php|title=Ireland Run In Five Tries To Complete Series Win Over Japan|date=24 June 2017|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=11 October 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171009143753/http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/40025.php|archive-date=9 October 2017|url-status=dead}}

Earls started every game for Ireland as they won a Grand Slam in the 2018 Six Nations Championship, scoring a try against Italy.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/41314.php|title=Sexton's Drop Of Magic Seals Dramatic Paris Win For Ireland|date=3 February 2018|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=18 March 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180323220259/http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/41314.php|archive-date=23 March 2018|url-status=dead}}{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/41389.php|title=Ireland Reel Off Eight Tries Against Italy To Go Top Of The Table|date=11 February 2018|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=18 March 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180318183655/http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/41389.php|archive-date=18 March 2018|url-status=dead}}{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/41486.php|title=Ireland Strengthen Title Challenge With Stirring Win Over Wales|date=24 February 2018|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=18 March 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180318183711/http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/41486.php|archive-date=18 March 2018|url-status=dead}}{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/41579.php|title=Six Nations Title Assured As Ireland Extend Winning Streak To 11 Tests|date=10 March 2018|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=18 March 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180316203905/http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/41579.php|archive-date=16 March 2018|url-status=dead}}{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/41641.php|title=Grand Slam Mission Complete As Ireland Make It A Clean Sweep At Twickenham|date=17 March 2018|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=18 March 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180319015501/http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/41641.php|archive-date=19 March 2018|url-status=dead}} He won the Players' Player of the Year award at the 2018 Rugby Players Ireland Awards in May of that year, becoming the fourth Munster player in a row to win the award after Paul O'Connell (2015), CJ Stander (2016) and Conor Murray (2017).{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2018/05/16/earls-voted-players-player-of-the-year-at-irish-rugby-awards/|title=Earls Voted Players' Player Of The Year At Irish Rugby Awards|date=16 May 2018|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=17 May 2018}} Earls started in all three tests in Ireland's historic 2–1 series victory against Australia in June 2018.{{cite news|url=http://irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/42146.php|title=First Blood To Wallabies As Ireland's Winning Streak Comes To An End|date=9 June 2018|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=24 June 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180620033531/http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/42146.php|archive-date=20 June 2018|url-status=dead}}{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/42176.php|title=Furlong On Fire As Ireland End Wait For Away Win Over Wallabies|date=16 June 2018|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=24 June 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180622170805/http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/42176.php|archive-date=22 June 2018|url-status=dead}}{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/42197.php|title=Schmidt Praises Character Of Players As Ireland Claim Historic Series Win|date=23 June 2018|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=24 June 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180624153308/http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/42197.php|archive-date=24 June 2018|url-status=dead}} During the 2018 Autumn Tests, Earls started in Ireland's 28–17 win against Argentina on 10 November, and in their 16–9 win against New Zealand on 17 November, a win that was Earls' first against the All Blacks and Ireland's first ever win in Dublin against New Zealand.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/42889.php|title=Ireland Set New Home Record With Solid Victory Over Pumas|date=10 November 2018|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=17 November 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181115084049/http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/42889.php|archive-date=15 November 2018|url-status=dead}}{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/42946.php|title=Immense Ireland End Long Wait For Home Win Over All Blacks|date=18 November 2018|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=18 November 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181118181704/http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/42946.php|archive-date=18 November 2018|url-status=dead}}

=2019–2023=

Earls was ever-present for Ireland during the 2019 Six Nations Championship, starting in the 32–20 opening defeat against England,{{cite news|url=https://www.irishrugby.ie/report/ireland-fail-to-fire-as-four-try-england-emerge-triumphant/#report|title=Ireland Fail To Fire As Four-Try England Emerge Triumphant|date=3 February 2019|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=30 August 2021}} the 22–13 win against Scotland,{{cite news|url=https://www.irishrugby.ie/report/irelands-dogged-display-sees-off-scottish-challenge/#report|title=Ireland's Dogged Display Sees Off Scottish Challenge|date=10 February 2019|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=30 August 2021}} the 26–16 win against Italy,{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/rugby-union/47350986|title=Six Nations: Ireland labour to 26-16 bonus-point victory over Italy|date=24 February 2019|work=BBC Sport|access-date=30 August 2021}} the 26–14 win against France{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/rugby-union/47516963|title=Six Nations: Ireland beat France 26-14 to retain title hopes|date=10 March 2019|work=BBC Sport|access-date=30 August 2021}} and the 25–7 defeat against Wales in the final round, a victory that saw the Welsh win the grand slam.{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/rugby-union/47596437|title=Wales 25-7 Ireland: Wales win Six Nations Grand Slam|date=16 March 2019|work=BBC Sport|access-date=30 August 2021}}

Earls was selected in the 31-man Ireland squad for the 2019 Rugby World Cup, despite injury preventing Earls from featuring in the first three warm-up matches.{{cite news|url=https://www.irishrugby.ie/2019/09/02/irelands-rugby-world-cup-squad-named/|title=Ireland's Rugby World Cup Squad Named|date=2 September 2019|work=IRFU|access-date=2 September 2019}} During the World Cup itself, Earls started in Ireland's shock 19–12 defeat against hosts Japan,{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/rugby-union/49849736|title=Japan 19-12 Ireland: Dazzling display gives hosts shock victory|date=28 September 2019|work=BBC Sport|access-date=30 August 2021}} the 35–0 win against Russia,{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/rugby-union/49903904|title=Ireland 35-0 Russia: Joe Schmidt's side labour to World Cup win|date=3 October 2019|work=BBC Sport|access-date=30 August 2021}} the 47–5 win against Samoa in their final pool game,{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/rugby-union/50012877|title=Ireland 47-5 Samoa: Bonus-point win puts Irish into last eight|date=12 October 2019|work=BBC Sport|access-date=30 August 2021}} and the comprehensive 46–14 defeat against New Zealand in the quarter-finals, which brought an end to Ireland's 2019 World Cup.{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/rugby-union/50109620|title=New Zealand 46-14 Ireland: 'We gave All Blacks a leg up' says Irish coach Schmidt|date=19 October 2019|work=BBC Sport|access-date=30 August 2021}}

Retained by new head coach Andy Farrell in his squad for the 2020 Six Nations Championship, Earls featured off the bench in Ireland's 24–14 win against defending-champions Wales{{cite news|url=https://www.irishrugby.ie/report/ireland-go-two-for-two-with-impressive-bonus-point-win/#report|title=Ireland Go Two For Two With Impressive Bonus Point Win|date=9 February 2020|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=30 August 2021}} and their 24–12 defeat against England,{{cite news|url=https://www.irishrugby.ie/report/damage-done-in-first-half-as-ireland-endure-disappointing-twickenham-defeat/#report|title=Damage Done In First Half As Ireland Endure Disappointing Twickenham Defeat|date=23 February 2020|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=30 August 2021}} before the tournament was suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic.{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/rugby-union/51800754|title=Six Nations 2020: Who can win title after matches postponed because of coronavirus?|date=9 March 2020|work=BBC Sport|access-date=30 August 2021}} With the usual format of end-of-year international tests not possible due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Ireland instead participated in the Autumn Nations Cup. Earls was a replacement in Ireland's 32–9 opening win against Wales on 13 November,{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/rugby-union/54917121|title=Autumn Nations Cup: Ireland defeat Wales 32-9 in tournament opener|date=13 November 2020|work=BBC Sport|access-date=30 August 2021}} and started in the 18–7 defeat against England on 21 November,{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/rugby-union/55028232|title=England 18-7 Ireland: Jonny May stars in emphatic and entertaining victory for hosts|date=21 November 2020|work=BBC Sport|access-date=30 August 2021}} the 23–10 win against Georgia on 29 November,{{cite news|url=https://www.skysports.com/rugby-union/ireland-vs-georgia/97313|title=Ireland 23-10 Georgia: Uninspired Irish beat Georgia|date=29 November 2020|work=Sky Sports|access-date=30 August 2021}} and the 31–16 win against Scotland on 5 December, which secured a third-place finish for Ireland in the tournament.{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/rugby-union/55176542|title=Ireland 31-16 Scotland: Hosts finish third in Autumn Nations Cup|date=5 December 2020|work=BBC Sport|access-date=30 August 2021}}

Earls was again ever-present for Ireland during the 2021 Six Nations Championship, starting in their 21–16 away defeat against Wales in their opening fixture of the 2021 Six Nations Championship on 7 February 2021{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/rugby-union/55973275|title=Six Nations: Wales beat 14-man Ireland 21-16 in tense opener|date=7 February 2021|work=BBC Sport|access-date=30 August 2021}} and the 15–13 home defeat against France,{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/rugby-union/56044459|title=Ireland 13-15 France: France make it two out of two while Ireland remain without a win|date=14 February 2021|work=BBC Sport|access-date=30 August 2021}} featuring as a replacement in the 48–10 away win against Italy,{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/rugby-union/56224324|title=Italy 10-48 Ireland: Improved Irish cruise to easy win in Rome|date=27 February 2021|work=BBC Sport|access-date=30 August 2021}} then returning to the starting XV for the 27–24 away win against Scotland{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/rugby-union/56366817|title=Six Nations 2021: Ireland beat Scotland 27-24 via late Johnny Sexton penalty|date=14 March 2021|work=BBC Sport|access-date=30 August 2021}} and the 32–18 win against England in the final round.{{cite news|url=https://www.irishexaminer.com/sport/rugby/arid-40248281.html|title=Jack Conan sets up try and scores another as Ireland too good for England at Aviva|date=20 March 2021|work=Irish Examiner|access-date=30 August 2021}} During the 2021 Autumn Nations Series, Earls featured as a replacement in Ireland's 60–5 win against Japan on 6 November,{{cite news|url=https://www.the42.ie/ireland-japan-report-2021-5594068-Nov2021/|title=Ireland obliterate Japan with slick performance as Sexton marks 100th in style|date=6 November 2021|work=The42|access-date=16 November 2021}} in the famous 29–20 win against New Zealand on 13 November,{{cite news|url=https://www.the42.ie/ireland-all-blacks-2021-report-5600819-Nov2021/|title=Farrell's brilliant Ireland power to thrilling victory over the All Blacks in Dublin|date=13 November 2021|work=The42|access-date=16 November 2021}} and in the 53–7 win against Argentina in Ireland's final fixture of the series on 21 November.{{cite news|url=https://www.the42.ie/ireland-argentina-report-2021-5607840-Nov2021/|title=Farrell's Ireland finish autumn in style with battering of Argentina|date=21 November 2021|work=The42|access-date=21 November 2021}}

Earls missed the 2022 Six Nations Championship due to a thigh injury,{{cite news|url=https://www.the42.ie/munster-ireland-earls-5685027-Feb2022/|title=Earls faces 'longer-term rehab' so wait for 100th Ireland cap goes on|date=17 February 2022|work=The42|access-date=20 February 2022}} but, having returned from that injury with Munster, Earls was selected in the squad for the 2022 Ireland rugby union tour of New Zealand,{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2022/06/14/andy-farrell-names-40-player-squad-for-new-zealand-tour/#post|title=Andy Farrell Names 40-Player Squad For New Zealand Tour|date=14 June 2022|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=17 June 2022}} and started in the uncapped match against the Māori All Blacks on 29 June, which ended in a 32–17 defeat for Ireland,{{cite news|url=https://www.the42.ie/maori-all-blacks-ireland-5802670-Jun2022/|title=Ireland's tour gets off to a terrible start after Maori All Blacks stun visitors|date=29 June 2022|work=The42|access-date=1 July 2022}} before also starting in the first test against New Zealand on 2 July, scoring a try in Ireland's 42–19 defeat.{{cite news|url=https://www.the42.ie/ireland-new-zealand-11-5805859-Jul2022/|title=Disaster for Ireland as All Blacks score six tries to win opening test of the series|date=2 July 2022|work=The42|access-date=6 July 2022}} Earls captained Ireland for the first time in their second uncapped match against the Māori All Blacks on 12 July, which Ireland won 30–24 to draw the series 1–1,{{cite news|url=https://www.the42.ie/ireland-maori-all-blacks-6-5814428-Jul2022/|title=Brilliant Ireland build on Saturday's win over the All Blacks with Maori scalp|date=12 July 2022|work=The42|access-date=16 July 2022}}{{cite news|url=https://www.irishexaminer.com/sport/rugby/arid-40916351.html|title='It was one of my proudest moments,' Keith Earls thrilled to captain Ireland to victory|date=12 July 2022|work=Irish Examiner|access-date=16 July 2022}} before featuring off the bench in the 32–22 win against New Zealand in the third test on 16 July that secured a historic 2–1 series victory for Ireland, their first ever in New Zealand.{{cite news|url=https://www.the42.ie/ireland-new-zealand-draft-5818559-Jul2022/|title=Ireland stun the All Blacks to become just the fifth touring side to win series in New Zealand|date=16 July 2022|work=The42|access-date=16 July 2022}}

Earls missed Ireland's 2022 Autumn Nations Series due to a thigh injury and also missed the 2023 Six Nations Championship due to a calf injury,{{cite news|url=https://www.irishexaminer.com/sport/rugby/arid-41130394.html|title=Keith Earls looks set to miss rest of Munster's season|date=3 May 2023|work=Irish Examiner|access-date=19 August 2023}} but returned for Ireland in their 33–17 win against Italy on 5 August in both nations' first 2023 Rugby World Cup warm-up match,{{cite news|url=https://www.irishexaminer.com/sport/rugby/arid-41199109.html|title=Far from perfect but Ireland get World Cup journey started with a win|date=5 August 2023|work=Irish Examiner|access-date=19 August 2023}} and earned his 100th cap for Ireland in their second warm-up match on 19 August, scoring one try in their 29–10 win against England having replaced James Lowe during the second-half.{{cite news|url=https://www.irishexaminer.com/sport/rugby/arid-41208418.html|title=Keith Earls marks century with a try as Ireland power past England|date=19 August 2023|work=Irish Examiner|access-date=19 August 2023}} Earls was selected in Ireland's 33-man squad for the 2023 Rugby World Cup,{{cite news|url=https://www.irishrugby.ie/2023/08/27/farrell-names-33-player-ireland-rugby-world-cup-squad/|title=Farrell Names 33-Player Ireland Rugby World Cup Squad|date=27 August 2023|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=27 August 2023}} and started in their opening 82–8 win against Romania on 9 September.{{cite news|url=https://www.irishexaminer.com/sport/rugby/arid-41222923.html|title=Farrell's Ireland breeze to comfortable win over Romania in World Cup opener|date=10 September 2023|work=Irish Examiner|access-date=10 September 2023}} After Ireland's exit in the quarter-finals, Earls announced his retirement along with teammate Johnny Sexton.

British & Irish Lions

On 21 April 2009, Earls was selected as part of the 2009 British & Irish Lions tour to South Africa.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/news/18702.php#.Wd3h_fiGPIU|title=British & Irish Lions Squad Announced|work=Irish Rugby|date=21 April 2009|access-date=23 April 2009}} He made his Lions debut on 30 May 2009, in a nervy, error-strewn performance against a South African Royal XV.{{cite news|url=https://www.lionsrugby.com/historic-report/?FixGuid=08RB2330|title=Late Lions Start With A Win|date=30 May 2009|work=Lions Rugby|access-date=11 October 2017}} A week later, against Currie Cup outfit the Free State Cheetahs, he put in a far improved showing, scoring an impressive try which ultimately proved crucial to the result, with the Lions coming through to win 26–24.{{cite news|url=https://www.lionsrugby.com/historic-report/?FixGuid=08CB2147|title=Lions Hold Off Cheetahs Comeback|date=6 June 2009|work=Lions Rugby|access-date=11 October 2017}} On 23 June 2009, he scored a try from fullback in a tour match against the Emerging Springboks. On receiving the ball at the out half position and stepping past three rushing defenders, he touched down for the Lions' only try in a 13–13 draw.{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/rugby_union/8112859.stm|title=Emerging Springboks 13-13 Lions|work=BBC Sport|date=23 June 2009|access-date=2 October 2011}} Earls also played against Western Province and Southern Kings in mid-week games,{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/rugby_union/8096632.stm|title=Western Province 23-26 Lions|date=13 June 2009|work=BBC Sport|access-date=11 October 2017}}{{cite news|url=https://www.lionsrugby.com/historic-report/?FixGuid=08SB9557|title=Another Warm-Up Win|date=16 June 2009|work=Lions Rugby|access-date=11 October 2017}} but he did not win any full Lions caps on the tour.

Personal life

Earls and his long-time partner, Edel McGee, married in Quilty, County Clare on 1 July 2016.{{cite news|url=http://www.independent.ie/style/weddings/rugby-star-keith-earls-weds-longterm-love-edel-mcgee-in-intimate-ceremony-in-clare-34851392.html|title=Rugby star Keith Earls weds long-term love Edel McGee in intimate ceremony in Clare|date=2 July 2016|work=Irish Independent|access-date=3 September 2016}} Together they have three daughters, Ella-May, Laurie and Emie.{{cite news|url=https://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/pro14/tough-upbringing-in-limerick-made-me-man-i-am-today-reveals-earls-38718210.html|title=Tough upbringing in Limerick made me man I am today, reveals Earls|date=23 November 2019|work=Belfast Telegraph|access-date=23 August 2021}} Earls released his autobiography - Fight or Flight: My Life, My Choices - in October 2021.{{cite news|url=https://www.limerickpost.ie/2021/05/21/keith-earls-autobiography-coming-this-october/|title=Keith Earls autobiography coming this October|date=21 May 2021|work=Limerick Post|access-date=23 August 2021}} In the same month, during an appearance on The Late Late Show, Earls revealed he had been diagnosed with Bipolar II disorder eight years previously and opened up about his mental health struggles,{{cite news|url=https://www.rte.ie/sport/rugby/2021/1015/1254026-earls-dont-be-embarrassed-to-admit-youre-struggling/|title=Keith Earls: Don't be embarrassed to admit you're struggling|date=15 October 2021|work=RTÉ Sport|access-date=23 October 2021}}{{cite news|url=https://www.irishexaminer.com/sport/rugby/arid-40722762.html|title=Keith Earls reveals bipolar diagnosis: 'I didn't know when I was Keith or Hank'|date=16 October 2021|work=Irish Examiner|access-date=23 October 2021}} with then-Munster head coach Johann van Graan, amongst others, heaping praise upon Earls for his honesty and bravery.{{cite news|url=https://www.irishexaminer.com/sport/rugby/arid-40724805.html|title=Keith Earls' honesty 'will change a lot of people's lives', says Johann van Graan|date=19 October 2021|work=Irish Examiner|access-date=23 October 2021}}{{cite news|url=https://www.otbsports.com/rugby/earls-quinlan-podcast-1266803|title=Earls makes me proud to be a Munster man {{!}} Alan Quinlan|date=19 October 2021|work=OTB Sports|access-date=23 October 2021}}{{cite news|url=https://evoke.ie/2021/10/16/entertainment/viewers-say-keith-earls-talks-depression-on-late-late|title=Late Late viewers say Keith Earls 'played game of his life' as he reveals bipolar diagnosis|date=16 October 2021|work=Evoke|access-date=23 October 2021}} The book was met with widespread praise,{{cite news|url=https://www.irishexaminer.com/sport/rugby/arid-40753677.html|title=Keith Earls: Moyross, Munster, and finding an inner peace with yourself|date=27 November 2021|work=Irish Examiner|access-date=27 November 2021}}{{cite news|url=https://www.the42.ie/keith-earls-bipolar-5613047-Nov2021/|title=Keith Earls: 'After going on The Late, Late, I thought 'sh**, have I given too much away?'|date=27 November 2021|work=The42|access-date=27 November 2021}} and won Sports Book of the Year at the Irish Book Awards.{{cite news|url=https://www.the42.ie/keith-earls-fight-or-flight-wins-sports-book-of-the-year-5610067-Nov2021/|title=Keith Earls' 'Fight Or Flight' wins Sports Book of the Year|date=23 November 2021|work=The42|access-date=27 November 2021}}

Statistics

=International tries=

Try	Opposing team	Location	Venue	Competition	Date	Result
class="wikitable sortable" style="font-size:95%"
1	{{ru\|CAN}}	Limerick	Thomond Park	2008 November Tests	{{dts\|format=dmy\|2008\|November\|8}}	Won
2	{{ru\|FIJ}}	Dublin	RDS Arena	2009 November Tests	{{dts\|format=dmy\|2009\|November\|21}}	Won
3	{{ru\|FIJ}}	Dublin	RDS Arena	2009 November Tests	{{dts\|format=dmy\|2009\|November\|21}}	Won
4	{{ru\|ENG}}	London	Twickenham	2010 Six Nations	{{dts\|format=dmy\|2010\|February\|27}}	Won
5	{{ru\|WAL}}	Dublin	Croke Park	2010 Six Nations	{{dts\|format=dmy\|2010\|March\|13}}	Won
6	{{ru\|WAL}}	Dublin	Croke Park	2010 Six Nations	{{dts\|format=dmy\|2010\|March\|13}}	Won
7	{{ru\|RUS}}	Rotorua	International Stadium	2011 Rugby World Cup	{{dts\|format=dmy\|2011\|September\|25}}	Won
8	{{ru\|RUS}}	Rotorua	International Stadium	2011 Rugby World Cup	{{dts\|format=dmy\|2011\|September\|25}}	Won
9	{{ru\|ITA}}	Dunedin	Forsyth Barr Stadium	2011 Rugby World Cup	{{dts\|format=dmy\|2011\|October\|2}}	Won
10	{{ru\|ITA}}	Dunedin	Forsyth Barr Stadium	2011 Rugby World Cup	{{dts\|format=dmy\|2011\|October\|2}}	Won
11	{{ru\|WAL}}	Wellington	Westpac Stadium	2011 Rugby World Cup	{{dts\|format=dmy\|2011\|October\|8}}	Lost
12	{{ru\|ITA}}	Dublin	Aviva Stadium	2012 Six Nations	{{dts\|format=dmy\|2012\|February\|25}}	Won
13	{{ru\|WAL}}	Cardiff	Millennium Stadium	2015 RWC warm-up	{{dts\|format=dmy\|2015\|August\|8}}	Won
14	{{ru\|ROM}}	London	Wembley Stadium	2015 Rugby World Cup	{{dts\|format=dmy\|2015\|September\|27}}	Won
15	{{ru\|ROM}}	London	Wembley Stadium	2015 Rugby World Cup	{{dts\|format=dmy\|2015\|September\|27}}	Won
16	{{ru\|ITA}}	London	Olympic Stadium	2015 Rugby World Cup	{{dts\|format=dmy\|2015\|October\|4}}	Won
17	{{ru\|SCO}}	Dublin	Aviva Stadium	2016 Six Nations	{{dts\|format=dmy\|2016\|March\|19}}	Won
18	{{ru\|CAN}}	Dublin	Aviva Stadium	2016 November Tests	{{dts\|format=dmy\|2016\|November\|12}}	Won
19	{{ru\|AUS}}	Dublin	Aviva Stadium	2016 November Tests	{{dts\|format=dmy\|2016\|November\|26}}	Won
20	{{ru\|SCO}}	Edinburgh	Murrayfield	2017 Six Nations	{{dts\|format=dmy\|2017\|February\|4}}	Lost
21	{{ru\|ITA}}	Rome	Stadio Olimpico	2017 Six Nations	{{dts\|format=dmy\|2017\|February\|11}}	Won
22	{{ru\|ITA}}	Rome	Stadio Olimpico	2017 Six Nations	{{dts\|format=dmy\|2017\|February\|11}}	Won
23	{{ru\|USA}}	New Jersey	Red Bull Arena	2017 Ireland tour	{{dts\|format=dmy\|2017\|June\|10}}	Won
24	{{ru\|USA}}	New Jersey	Red Bull Arena	2017 Ireland tour	{{dts\|format=dmy\|2017\|June\|10}}	Won
25	{{ru\|JPN}}	Shizuoka	Shizuoka Stadium	2017 Ireland tour	{{dts\|format=dmy\|2017\|June\|17}}	Won
26	{{ru\|JPN}}	Shizuoka	Shizuoka Stadium	2017 Ireland tour	{{dts\|format=dmy\|2017\|June\|17}}	Won
27	{{ru\|ITA}}	Dublin	Aviva Stadium	2018 Six Nations	{{dts\|format=dmy\|2018\|February\|10}}	Won
28	{{ru\|SCO}}	Edinburgh	Murrayfield	2019 Six Nations	{{dts\|format=dmy\|2019\|February\|9}}	Won
29	{{ru\|ITA}}	Rome	Stadio Olimpico	2019 Six Nations	{{dts\|format=dmy\|2019\|February\|24}}	Won
30	{{ru\|FRA}}	Dublin	Aviva Stadium	2019 Six Nations	{{dts\|format=dmy\|2019\|March\|10}}	Won
31	{{ru\|SCO}}	Dublin	Aviva Stadium	Autumn Nations Cup	{{dts\|format=dmy\|2020\|December\|5}}	Won
32	{{ru\|SCO}}	Dublin	Aviva Stadium	Autumn Nations Cup	{{dts\|format=dmy\|2020\|December\|5}}	Won
33	{{ru\|ITA}}	Rome	Stadio Olimpico	2021 Six Nations	{{dts\|format=dmy\|2021\|February\|27}}	Won
34	{{ru\|ENG}}	Dublin	Aviva Stadium	2021 Six Nations	{{dts\|format=dmy\|2021\|March\|20}}	Won
35	{{ru\|NZL}}	Auckland	Eden Park	2022 Ireland tour	{{dts\|format=dmy\|2022\|July\|2}}	Lost
36	{{ru\|ENG}}	Dublin	Aviva Stadium	2023 RWC warm-up	{{dts\|format=dmy\|2023\|August\|19}}	Won

=International analysis by opposition=

Against ! Played ! Won ! Lost ! Drawn ! Tries ! Points ! % Won
class="sortable wikitable" style="text-align: center;"
bgcolor="#d0ffd0" align="center"
align="left" \| {{ru\|ARG}}	5	4	1	0	0	0	{{#expr:4/5*100 round 2}}
align="left" \| {{ru\|AUS}}	6	4	1	1	1	5	{{#expr:4/6*100 round 2}}
align="left" \| {{ru\|CAN}}	3	3	0	0	2	10	{{#expr:3/3*100 round 2}}
align="left" \| {{ru\|ENG}}	13	6	7	0	3	15	{{#expr:6/13*100 round 2}}
align="left" \| {{ru\|FIJ}}	1	1	0	0	2	10	{{#expr:1/1*100 round 2}}
align="left" \| {{ru\|FRA}}	11	4	5	2	1	5	{{#expr:4/11*100 round 2}}
align="left" \| {{ru\|GEO}}	1	1	0	0	0	0	{{#expr:1/1*100 round 2}}
align="left" \| {{ru\|ITA}}	12	11	1	0	9	45	{{#expr:11/12*100 round 2}}
align="left" \| {{ru\|JPN}}	4	3	1	0	2	10	{{#expr:3/4*100 round 2}}
align="left" \| {{ru\|NZL}}	9	3	6	0	1	5	{{#expr:3/9*100 round 2}}
align="left" \| {{ru\|ROM}}	2	2	0	0	2	10	{{#expr:2/2*100 round 2}}
align="left" \| {{ru\|RUS}}	2	2	0	0	2	10	{{#expr:2/2*100 round 2}}
align="left" \| {{ru\|SAM}}	1	1	0	0	0	0	{{#expr:1/1*100 round 2}}
align="left" \| {{ru\|SCO}}	10	7	3	0	5	25	{{#expr:7/10*100 round 2}}
align="left" \| {{ru\|RSA}}	5	2	3	0	0	0	{{#expr:2/5*100 round 2}}
align="left" \| {{ru\|USA}}	2	2	0	0	2	10	{{#expr:2/2*100 round 2}}
align="left" \| {{ru\|WAL}}	14	7	6	1	4	20	{{#expr:7/14*100 round 2}}
class="sortbottom" ! Total	101	63	34	4	36	180	{{#expr:63/101*100 round 2}}

Correct as of 9 September 2023[http://en.espn.co.uk/statsguru/rugby/player/15966.html?class=1;template=results;type=player Player Analysis: Keith Earls], ESPN Scrum, 26 November 2016

Honours

=Individual=

Munster Rugby John McCarthy Award for Academy Player of the Year:
Winner (1): 2007{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2007/04/30/hayes-named-player-of-the-year/|title=Hayes Named Player Of The Year|date=30 April 2007|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=18 December 2020}}
Munster Rugby Young Player of the Year:
Winner (1): 2009{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2009/04/25/2009-munster-rugby-awards/|title=2009 Munster Rugby Awards|date=25 April 2009|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=18 December 2020}}
Munster Rugby Player of the Year:
Winner (1): 2018{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2018/04/25/earls-named-munster-player-of-the-year/|title=Earls Named Munster Player Of The Year|date=25 April 2018|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=18 December 2020}}
Rugby Players Ireland Players' Player of the Year:
Winner (1): 2018{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2018/05/16/earls-voted-players-player-of-the-year-at-irish-rugby-awards/|title=Earls Voted Players' Player Of The Year At Irish Rugby Awards|date=16 May 2020|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=18 December 2020}}

=St Munchin's College=

Munster Schools Rugby Senior Cup:
Winner (1): 2006

=Munster=

United Rugby Championship:
Winner (3): 2008–09, 2010–11, 2022–23
European Rugby Champions Cup:
Winner (1): 2007–08

=Ireland=

Six Nations Championship:
Winner (1): 2018
Grand Slam:
Winner (1): 2018
Triple Crown:
Winner (1): 2018

=British & Irish Lions=

British & Irish Lions tours:
Tourist (1): 2009

References

External links

[https://munsterrugby.ie/player?PlayGuid=KE263615 Munster Profile]
[https://www.irishrugby.ie/player/keith-earls/ Ireland Profile]
[https://www.lionsrugby.com/player/?PlayGuid=KE263615 British & Irish Lions Profile]
{{EPCR profile|KE263615}}
[https://www.unitedrugby.com/clubs/munster/keith-earls URC Profile]
{{Sport links}}

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Category:1987 births

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