Brumbies hooker Billy Pollard is the latest Wallaby to sign a short-term deal overseas, linking up with European champions La Rochelle.
Pollard will join the side immediately and will likely serve as cover for Pierre Bourgarit, who featured on France's tour to Japan in 2022.
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Brumbies officials confirmed Pollard will spend just over a month with the club before returning back to Canberra for the 2024 Super Rugby Pacific season.
The experience will be invaluable for the 21-year-old, with La Rochelle establishing themselves as one of the best teams in the world following back-to-back European Championships.
Pollard was rushed into the Wallabies set-up in last year's Rugby Championship after a breakout 2022 with the Brumbies.
He would suddenly make his debut against Argentina after Dave Porecki and Folau Fainga'a suffered head knocks.
Pollard reaffirmed his commitment to the club back in April, signing an extension until the 2025 season.
Pollard is the latest Australian player to take advantage of the 'joker' deal as they look for further experience during the Rugby World Cup.
Brumbies teammate Noah Lolesio has already signed with Toulon, where he will likely partner Waratahs captain Jake Gordon in the halves.
"The club is very supportive of Noah and Billy gaining valuable experience with two top European clubs," coach Stephen Larkham said.
"For both Billy and Noah, experiencing new rugby environments and culture off the field can only aid in their development as players and people and we look forward to welcoming them back in plenty of time to prepare for the 2024 season."
It is also expected up to 15 Australian players will be a part of the Barbarians' tour of Europe, set to be coached by Australia A boss Jason Gilmore.
Pollard had an injury-affected 2023, limiting him to just six games for the Brumbies.
