Wallabies centre Len Ikitau has re-signed with Rugby Australia and the Brumbies until the end of 2023.
Ikitau has had a breakout 2021 campaign, selected for his Wallabies debut against France in July.
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Since then, the 22-year-old has exploded onto the international stage, recently scoring a double to help Australia overcome world champions South Africa.
Having initially been picked in Dave Rennie's first Wallabies squad last year with less than 80 minutes of Super Rugby experience, Ikitau was excited to lock in his future.
“I’m stoked to be able to secure my future with the Brumbies and Rugby Australia for at least the next two years," he said in a statement.
“I’d like to thank everyone who have helped me get to this stage of my career, it’s been a really rewarding journey so far.
“I know I have plenty of improvement left in me and Canberra is the best place for me to continue to develop my game and learn what it takes to be a professional season after season.
“I’m looking forward to finishing off the 2021 Test season strong and getting back to the Brumbies to prepare for the Super Rugby Pacific competition.”
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This was shared by Wallabies coach Dave Rennie, who believes he can be a major factor heading forward ahead of the 2023 World Cup.
“We’re thrilled for Len and his family that he’s committed to Australian Rugby until the end of 2023," Rennie said.
“He’s a great young talent and a humble young man who’s learning quickly what it takes to be successful at this level.
“He’s got a really mature attitude about improving every day and that’s something that’s exciting for both Wallabies and Brumbies supporters moving forward.”
Brumbies coach and Wallabies assistant Dan McKellar added: “It’s fantastic for the club to have Lenny locked in for at least these next two years.”
“His maturity as a player and a person has been clear to see from everyone at the Brumbies, and in a short amount of time, he’s become a key pillar for our team in how we look to attack and defend.
“Working with Len over the past four years or so, I’ve always known he was capable of playing at the very top level and off the back of his commitment to training and doing all the little things that make you a top professional, he’s seen the rewards and if he continues on that path, I believe he’ll be a big contributor to the Brumbies and the Wallabies for many years to come.”
