The Wallabies have squared away yet one more key signing for the run to the Rugby World Cup, with Western Drive playmaker Ben Donaldson inking a two-year extension.
Donaldson will stay in Perth by 2027, doubtless organising a showdown with Queensland Reds fly-half Tom Lynagh for the correct to put on the No. 10 jersey on the world showpiece in Australia in two years’ time.
With Noah Lolesio heading abroad later this 12 months, Donaldson’s retention is a key piece of enterprise by Rugby Australia and the Drive, who face the Waratahs in Perth this weekend.
Donaldson is in his second season within the west after departing the Waratahs on the finish of 2023, the place he completed the World Cup as Eddie Jones’ central playmaker. However the panorama has shifted considerably since then with Carter Gordon within the NRL and Lolesio off to Japan, and Donaldson, who began simply two Checks in 2024 underneath Joe Schmidt, will now look to press his claims on a extra everlasting foundation.
“I have been right here two years now and cherished my time in WA. We have got a terrific group of boys on the Drive with the core having signed on for a number of extra years which is thrilling about the place we are able to go as a bunch,” Donaldson stated.
“I am delighted to be staying in Australian rugby with the Lions Tour later 12 months in addition to a Bledisloe Cup right here in Perth. There’s clearly additionally the lure of the house 2027 World Cup, which is extraordinarily motivating.
“I have been a part of the Wallabies squad in current instances and it is a sturdy group with a very good teaching unit, so hopefully I proceed to be a part of that transferring ahead with these huge video games and occasions to return.”
Donaldson’s extension comes after one other key Drive participant, back-rower Carlo Tizzano, additionally inked a two-year deal to remain in his residence metropolis. Tizzano deputized for Fraser McReight within the Wallabies No. 7 jersey final 12 months on a number of events, impressing together with his defence, particularly, in the course of the Rugby Championship.
The re-signings additionally observe these of outdoor backs Filipo Daugunu and Tom Wright respectively, who inked new two and three-year offers with the Reds and Brumbies, and Rugby Australia, respectively.
Waratahs skipper Jake Gordon additionally put pen to paper on a brand new two-year deal not too long ago, the spate of re-signings coming after the Wallabies’ teaching succession plan was eventually finalized earlier this month.
Donaldson is predicted to affix all those that have re-signed in an prolonged Wallabies squad that can put together for the Take a look at in opposition to Fiji, two weeks out from the primary Take a look at with the British & Irish Lions, when it’s named after the final Australian crew exits Tremendous Rugby Pacific.
“Ben is an effective younger participant and a powerful instance of the Australian rugby pathways system at work,” RA director of efficiency Peter Horne stated.
“He is earned good expertise at each Tremendous Rugby Pacific and Take a look at degree in recent times and we’re trying ahead to watching him proceed to work laborious and develop his recreation.”
