In a major boost for Australian Rugby and the Brumbies, flyhalf Noah Lolesio has rejected reported overseas offers, signing a two-year extension.
The deal sees the 22-year-old become the latest player to commit until 2024, having burst onto the International scene in 2020 in his first year of Super Rugby.
Lolesio was reportedly weighing up offers from Japan, with the young flyhalf believing staying at the Brumbies and Australia is the best move for his development.
“I’m really grateful to be able to re-sign with Rugby Australia and the Brumbies," Lolesio said in a statement.
“Achieving some of my goals, like representing the Wallabies, has been a dream come true, but I’ve still got a lot of things I want to achieve in both a Brumbies and a Wallabies jersey.
“Being part of a great group at the Brumbies with guys I’ve been playing with for a long time is something I value highly and off the back of training well, and putting in good performances, getting the opportunity to be a part of the Wallabies setup is amazing, so I’m just stoked to be staying.”
Lolesio was one of several players left at home by Wallabies coach Dave Rennie for the Spring Tour and whilst he eventually joined the squad, the flyhalf has showcased his developments as he guides the Brumbies to a top-two spot on the Super Rugby Pacific ladder.
"We're thrilled Noah has re-committed to Australian Rugby for another two years," Rennie believes.
"He's a confident young man, whose developing composure under pressure is evident at both Super Rugby and Test level.
"His skillset continues to improve, and we believe him staying in Canberra and Australian Rugby is going to be the best place for him to realise his potential."
“It’s fantastic for the Brumbies to have Noah locked in," Brumbies coach Dan McKellar added.
“Noah’s a player of tremendous potential, he’s developed well in our program and everyone at the Brumbies believes he’ll only continue to get better as he gets more and more time in the saddle.
“Retaining him was a high priority for everyone involved in Australian rugby so it's an exciting day for the club and a no doubt a proud day for Noah and his family.”
