Suntory announces trio of Aussie signings

Mon, May 16, 2016, 7:23 AM
Beth Newman
by Beth Newman
George Smith is off to Suntory at the end of the year. Photo: Getty Images
George Smith is off to Suntory at the end of the year. Photo: Getty Images

Wallabies legend George Smith heads a trio of Aussies who are set to play with Japanese Top League side Suntory this season.

Smith's future has been known for some time, but confirmed on Monday with the announcement of the Sungoliaths' 2016/17 squad.

The 111-Test veteran is far from the only Australian in the squad, with Christian Lealiifano and Brumbies winger Nigel Ah Wong on the list.

The Brumbies are yet to officially confirm the inclusion of Lealiifano and Ah Wong to Suntory's list.

Nigel Ah Wong is yet to officially announce his rugby future beyond 2016. Photo: ARU Media/Stu WalmsleyLealiifano had indicated an interest in a flexible contract when re-signing with the Brumbies and the ARU earlier this year, following in the footsteps of a handful of Wallabies who spend their summers in Japan.

Ah Wong's situation is more intriguing, with the winger's future not officially confirmed beyond 2016 in Canberra, though that's not to say he will be leaving the Brumbies.

The former Queensland Red has been in strong form for the ACT side, after stepping up to a starting wing spot in the absence of Henry Speight and Joe Tomane. 

Highlanders lock Joe Wheeler will also be donning the Sungoliaths jersey in the 2016-17 season, 

Suntory's announcements come off the back of Bernard Foley's recent decision to flick the second year of his deal with the Ricoh Black Rams.

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