Rodda re-signs with Reds, Wallabies

Tue, Sep 11, 2018, 10:00 PM
Sam Phillips
by Sam Phillips
A World Cup next year and the hope of turning Queensland into a Super Rugby powerhouse has seen Wallabies lock Izack Rodda commit to Australian rugby for two more years. The 22-year-old has started in all six Tests this year.

The Reds have staved off interest from other Super Rugby clubs to secure Izack Rodda's services until the end of 2020.

The 10 Test lock is considered a future captain of the club and putting pen to paper on a fresh deal is a big tick for a club desperate to clear out of the Super Rugby cellar in 2019.

"I’m very excited to re-sign for the two more years and I’m really looking forward to sticking in with the Reds and the Wallabies," Rodda said.

"The Reds gave me my first crack and my first contract. I was one year out of school and I haven’t really looked back since.

"It’s an unreal program that’s been growing each year and now that Thorny is the boss, it’s just going in the right direction as a club and all the players want to be there to keep growing that great vibe."Izack Rodda isn't going anywhere. Photo: Getty ImagesThe signing is also a significant coup for the Wallabies, as Rodda has become a major part of coach Michael Cheika's plans for the 2019 World Cup.

He has started in the second row for all six Australian Tests this season and his combination with star lock Adam Coleman can only continue to grow moving forward.

"Honestly, if you had asked me three years ago where I would be, I wouldn’t have said here with the Wallabies," Rodda said.

"It’s come very fast but I have loved every moment of it.

"In saying that, I still need to work very hard to keep my spot.

"There’s a lot of competition in my position coming through both the Reds and the Wallabies so it’s going to keep me on my toes."

Now that his future has been secured, Rodda only has one goal in mind.

"I want to try get in the World Cup squad then cement a spot in the 23, and hopefully win a World Cup."

The Wallabies face Argentina at Robina Stadium on Saturday, kicking off at 8pm AEST, broadcast LIVE on FOX SPORTS, Channel Ten and RUGBY.com.au radio.

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