Tom Cusack's return to XVs rugby has paid off, with the backrower re-signing with the Brumbies for the next two seasons.
Cusack played just the one game for the Brumbies in his debut year, but has shown strong form in the John I Dent Cup, for Royals.
“To play for the Brumbies has always been a goal of mine and I was very happy to become part of the team this season," he said.
“We have a really close knit group at the Brumbies, it really is a family atmosphere, and I am looking forward to being able to contribute fully to the team as we push for success.
“I feel I have settled in well this season and I have been enjoying my football. Club-wise Royals are having an outstanding season and I am looking forward to playing my part for both Royals and the Brumbies to the best of my ability.”
Cusack's re-signing follows the announcement of new contracts for props Nic Mayhew and Les Leuluailii-Makin on Tuesday, with clubs locking in players after the lifting of a months-long contracting moratorium.
Brumbies CEO Michael Thomson said it was great that Canberra native Cusack would stay at the club.
“As a local product we are very pleased that Tom will remain with the Brumbies. We are committed to providing a genuine pathway for young Canberra talent to make the elite level and Tom is another example of the talent that Canberra has in abundance.”
The Waratahs have looked to boost their second row stocks with the acquisition of Cusack's teammate Tom Staniforth, the Brumbies confirmed on Wednesday.
With Sam Carter and Rory Arnold difficult to shift in the starting spots, Staniforth opted to move north, with NSW on the hunt for locks as they prepare for the departure of Dean Mumm and Will Skelton.
“Whilst we are sorry to see a player like Tom depart the club we understand his reasoning and wish him all the very best for the future,” Thomson said
“Tom is an ambitious and talented young player and has the skill-set, and the drive and determination, to play regular first team football.
“At the Brumbies we are blessed to have two World Class locks in our Wallabies international duo Sam Carter and Rory Arnold and competition is fierce in that department.
“Tom has been a great contributor to the Brumbies in his time with us and he will always be part of our club.”
