1
Wallaby Hodge re-signs with Rebels
By Sacha Pisani
Wallabies back Reece Hodge has signed a new deal with Australian Rugby and Melbourne Rebels.
Hodge's new contract runs through until the end of 2020, tying him down beyond the 2019 Rugby World Cup in Japan, it was announced on Thursday.
The 22-year-old Super Rugby Rookie of the Year made his debut for the Wallabies and Rebels in 2016.
Hodge earned 10 Tests caps, while he made 12 appearances for Rebels, tallying 63 points.
"There were a few factors in the decision but the young tight knit playing group we have down here [in Melbourne] was definitely one of the reasons why I re-signed with the Rebels," Hodge said.
"Being a part of the 2016 Wallabies squad with so many new faces felt like the start of our journey towards 2019 and it's something that I really want to be a part of going forward.
"I know it will take a lot of hard work and consistent form to get there but just to have the opportunity to be playing rugby in Australia and striving towards that goal of playing for the Wallabies at the 2019 Rugby World Cup in Japan is awesome."
Wallabies head coach Michael Cheika added: "Reece took his opportunity in 2016, showing he's got what it takes firstly in Super Rugby then at the Test level. There's plenty of great young talent in Australia and Reece is a great example of what can happen when you take your chance.
"It's great to see young lads committing to long-term deals and I know Reece is very excited about the years ahead for both Melbourne and the Wallabies."
Trending on RugbyPass
2
All Blacks XV player ratings vs Munster
3
Suaalii strikes awe as Wallabies lose midfielder
4
Scott Robertson responds about handling errors
5
Latest Comments
The New Zealand performance in the return fixture in 2016 was filthy. A lot of Irish supporters were pretty shocked by it, viewed it as de facto cheating just to avoid another defeat.
Also shocked by the abuse to Ireland, captain, vice-captain and spectators after the full time whistle in Paris defeat, last match.
Sledging is sledging, but that happens during the game and targetting spectators should be completely out of bounds.
The Irish public used to enjoy these matches, even in defeat. Now they are necessary but unpleasant, because NZ apparently cannot accept or respect successful challengers.
Go to commentsThanks for the analysis Nick, thought provoking as usual. Couple of queries though, in the pic where you've circled Williams bind , I'm pretty sure it shows Stuart's knee on the ground, surely that's a NZ penalty? Also having had the chance to watch it again the All Black scrum seeems to improve after halftime, but before either England or the All Blacks replace their props. Not sure if that was the result of Tuipolutu coming on or some halftime tips. Either way this is only Williams second international season, so he'll be better for the experience.
Go to comments